By Tony Okafor, Awka
Prominent Nigerians including Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili and the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council have commended Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, for organising a grand celebration in honour of the Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, on his 85th birthday.
The dignitaries spoke on Friday during the monarch’s birthday celebration organised by the Abia State Government at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia.
Speaking at the event, Governor Otti stressed the need for unity among Nigerians, warning against divisive politics rooted in ethnicity and religion.
According to him, politicians often attempt to divide citizens by emphasising ethnic and regional differences, insisting that Nigerians remain one people irrespective of background.
“So, we are all one and the same. When misguided politicians want to divide us, they begin to remind us that you are from here and the other person is from there,” Otti said.
The governor described the Obi of Onitsha as a selfless leader, gentleman and symbol of integrity whose life of service continues to inspire generations across Nigeria and beyond.
He said the celebration was deliberately organised to teach younger generations that hard work, honour and diligence still pay.
“We want our young people to know that it pays to be diligent. Honour pays,” he added.
Otti further disclosed that his administration was rebuilding the Ojukwu Bunker as part of efforts to preserve the state’s history and cultural heritage.
He maintained that his administration remained focused on governance and economic development despite political distractions.
“Yes, this is a political period. But we are not bothered. We just do the right thing and keep doing the work we are doing for our people. We will not be distracted,” the governor stated.
In his remarks, Senator Abaribe described the event as an opportunity to celebrate a legend, noting that Governor Otti recognises and honours excellence.
Similarly, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, praised the Obi of Onitsha for bringing dignity and class to the traditional institution.
Former Education Minister, Dr. Ezekwesili, saluted the monarch, describing him as an institution and an exceptional personality whose influence transcends traditional leadership.
She also commended Governor Otti for hosting the royal father, describing the event as proof that the monarch was worthy of celebration.
Ezekwesili urged Abians to continue supporting the governor to sustain the state’s transformational agenda.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council, Eze E.C. Okeke, representative of the Igwe-in-Council, Chief Okey Mike Areh, and the Archbishop of Methodist Church Nigeria, Umuahia Archdiocese, Most Rev. Chibuzor Opoko, described the celebration in Umuahia as unique and reflective of the monarch’s wide acceptance across the country.
They thanked Governor Otti and the Abia State Government for celebrating the monarch while alive and prayed for divine blessings upon the governor.
Responding, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, recounted his relationship with Governor Otti dating back to their days at Diamond Bank, where he served as Chairman while Otti was the Chief Executive Officer.
The monarch described Otti as intelligent and hardworking and thanked him for fulfilling his promise to celebrate him.
He called on Abians to continue supporting the governor, expressing confidence that Otti would take the state to greater heights.
According to the monarch, the achievements recorded by the administration within a short period were only the beginning of greater developments ahead.
The event featured cake-cutting, photo sessions and goodwill messages, attracting politicians, traditional rulers and clergymen from across Igboland and beyond.
