Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has described the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty (HRM), Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, as a selfless leader, a gentleman, and a man worthy of celebration.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Governor Otti said that the life of service, wisdom, and integrity demonstrated by HRM Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe has continued to inspire generations across Nigeria and beyond.
The Governor also emphasised the need for unity among Nigerians, warning against divisive politics driven by tribal and religious sentiments.
Governor Otti made these remarks on Friday during the 85th birthday celebration of the Obi of Onitsha, HRM Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, organised by the Abia State Government at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia.
He noted that the celebration was intended to send a strong message to younger generations that hard work, honour, and diligence still pay.
“So, we are all one and the same. You know, when misguided politicians want to divide us, they begin to remind us that you are from here and the other person is from there.
“We want our young people to know that it pays to be diligent. Honour pays,” Governor Otti stated.
Governor Otti further appreciated the monarch’s immense contributions to Igboland, Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.
He prayed that God would continue to bless him with good health and every resource required to sustain his service to humanity.
The Governor also described the royal father as a mentor, a father figure, and a trusted adviser, revealing that he often consults him before taking major decisions.
He thanked God for preserving the monarch to celebrate his 85th birthday in good health and prayed for greater strength, wisdom, and long life for him to continue impacting humanity.
He also congratulated the revered monarch on the milestone.
Governor Otti, who disclosed that his administration is rebuilding the Ojukwu Bunker as part of efforts to preserve the state’s rich history and heritage, stated that his government has restored the dignity of Abians through purposeful governance and people-oriented policies.
He maintained that his administration remains focused on delivering good 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,” Otti added.
The Governor explained that, for many years, Abians suffered stigma and discrimination outside the state. However, he maintained that the current administration has reversed the narrative through infrastructural renewal, inclusiveness, and economic transformation.
Also speaking at the event, the Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, described the occasion as an opportunity to celebrate a legend. They noted that Governor Otti is a leader who recognises excellence and appreciates individuals who have added value to society.
They further stated that Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe has brought class and dignity to the traditional institution.
They commended Governor Otti for celebrating the first-class royal father and congratulated the monarch on his 85th birthday.
The former Minister of Education, Dr. Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili, saluted the Obi of Onitsha, saying that he has become an institution in himself.
She described him as an exceptional and highly professional personality.
While appreciating Governor Otti for hosting the royal father, Dr. Ezekwesili described the event as a significant statement that proves the monarch is truly worthy of celebration.
She also called on Ndi Abia not to take Governor Otti for granted but to continue giving him the needed support to sustain the transformational agenda of the state.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Dr. E.C. Okeke; the representative of the Igwe-in-Council, Chief Dr. Okey Mike Areh; and the Archbishop of Methodist Church Nigeria, Umuahia Archdiocese, Most Rev. Chibuzor Opoko, all congratulated Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe on his 85th birthday.
They described the celebration in Umuahia as unique and as evidence of the monarch’s wide acceptance and influence across the country.
They also thanked Governor Alex Otti and the Abia State Government for choosing to celebrate the royal father while he is alive and prayed for God’s abundant blessings upon the Governor.
Responding, the celebrant, HRM Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, reflected on his life journey over the past 85 years.
He recalled how he met Governor Alex Otti and worked with him during his tenure as Chairman of Diamond Bank while Dr. Otti served as the bank’s Chief Executive Officer.
The monarch described Governor Otti as an intelligent and exceptionally hardworking individual.
Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, while thanking Governor Otti for fulfilling his promise to celebrate him, called on Abians to sustain their support for the Governor to enable him complete his visionary transformation agenda for the state.
He expressed confidence that Governor Otti would take Abia to greater heights, adding that the projects executed within the past years are only the beginning of better things to come.
The monarch also thanked God for blessing him and granting him the grace to celebrate his 85th birthday anniversary, which officially fell on May 14, while the state celebration hosted by Governor Otti took place on May 15.
The event featured a cake-cutting ceremony, photo sessions, and other activities. It attracted numerous dignitaries, including politicians, traditional rulers, clergy, and other notable personalities from across Igboland and beyond.
About Author
