Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has called for greater unity, justice, and collaboration among leaders in the Southeast and South-South regions, stressing that only collective effort can guarantee sustainable development.
The Governor made the call on Thursday during the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council meeting held at the JAAC Building, Umuahia, on March 20, 2026.
Addressing the royal fathers, Otti reminded them of their lifelong responsibility to uphold justice and fairness in their communities, noting that traditional leadership transcends political tenures.
He emphasised the need for unity across divides, stating that progress is best achieved when leaders work together.
“If you want to go very fast, you go alone, but if you want to go far, you go together. From now henceforth, we should all go together,” Otti said.
The Governor also dismissed speculations of disunity among Southeast governors, explaining that perceived differences often stem from varying developmental priorities across states.
“Sometimes, people create differences that don’t exist. What one state requires may differ from another. Comparing governors is like comparing apples and oranges,” he added.
Highlighting his administration’s approach to governance, Otti said development efforts in Abia are driven by critical needs in infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
He described justice as a divine responsibility, urging leaders to ensure fairness, equity, and righteousness in their decisions.
“Power belongs to God. Leadership is a gift, and you must not disappoint Him. Justice must be seen and must be done,” the Governor stated.
Citing his appointment of a non-indigene as Head of Service, Otti said merit and due process remain central to his administration.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, described the gathering as a convergence of wisdom and tradition, noting that traditional institutions play a vital role in grassroots governance and peacebuilding.
He highlighted key achievements of the administration, including massive road construction projects, revitalisation of over 200 primary healthcare centres, recruitment of nearly 10,000 teachers, and reforms aimed at promoting transparency.
Nwachukwu also listed grassroots initiatives such as the Abia TechRise programme, youth empowerment schemes, agricultural training, and solar-powered markets, urging traditional rulers to partner with government in addressing insecurity and unemployment.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Dr. Linus Nto Mbah, commended the government’s strides in development but raised concerns over declining cultural values and rising communal conflicts.
Similarly, Chairman of the South-South Monarchs Forum, Sergeant Chidi Awuse, called for stronger regional integration and cooperation, noting that unity would drive greater progress.
The meeting reaffirmed the critical role of traditional rulers in promoting peace, security, and development, with stakeholders advocating sustained collaboration between government and traditional institutions.
The event was attended by the Mayor of Umuahia North LGA, Hon. Smart Ihuoma, top government officials, and traditional rulers from across the Southeast and South-South regions.
