Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
A traditional ruler from Rivers State, the monarch of Rumuevuorlu community in Obi/Akpor Local Government Area, Eze Prof. Christian Akani, has said whoever succeeds Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, will face a daunting task matching his achievements.
Akani made the remark during a royal visit to Governor Otti at the Government House, Umuahia.
The monarch said Otti had changed the narrative in Abia and restored pride among the people, describing him as a visionary and dogged leader.
“Some people may not understand the depth of my happiness. I am aware of the series of permutations that took place,” Akani said.
“Maybe some of you in Abia State may not know the extent to which the name of Abia has gone because of Your Excellency.
“One thing I saw in you is your doggedness and confidence. You had a vision and that vision has materialised.
“We know that whenever you leave this place, your successor will have a huge task to perform beyond what you have done.”
He said he visited the governor to express solidarity and support for his administration.
“I need to support you because if you succeed, all of us have succeeded. If you fail, all of us have failed. Therefore, whatever you think any of us can do to support you, we are ready,” he added.
Akani also invited the governor to a programme being organised by his department at the University of Port Harcourt and requested that the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy represent him at the event.
Responding, Otti expressed appreciation for the visit of his long-time friend, Prof. Akani, noting that their relationship dates back more than four decades to their university days.
The governor recalled that Akani was known for his bold and intellectually engaging disposition during their student days, often participating in debates with fellow students and lecturers.
Otti also commended the initiative by Akani’s department to organise a remembrance event in honour of reggae legend Bob Marley, describing it as a worthy effort to preserve the legacy of a global icon who used his talent to promote freedom and justice.
He approved the request for the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy to represent him at the programme.
During the visit, Akani presented the governor with a framed photograph of himself, Otti and two of their colleagues taken during their NYSC orientation camp in 1988.
Otti also stressed the need for national unity, noting that Nigerians are naturally peaceful and accommodating people who co-exist across different regions.
He observed that many indigenes of Abia have lived and prospered in other parts of the country, particularly in Rivers State, contributing significantly to economic and social development there.
According to him, perceived divisions among Nigerians are often amplified for political advantage and do not reflect the true relationships among citizens.
The governor also commended the monarch for successfully combining his academic career with the responsibilities of traditional leadership in his community.
Those present at the meeting included the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu; Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr Mathew Ekwuruibe; the Senior Special Assistant on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mrs Magdalene Ugoanusi; and other top government officials.
