Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has dismissed claims of disunity among governors in the South-East, stating that differences in state priorities should not be misconstrued as discord.
This was contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku, following his remarks at the South-East Traditional Rulers Council meeting held in Umuahia.
Otti made the clarification on Friday, March 20, 2026, while addressing the council, where he emphasised the need for unity, justice, and collaboration among leaders in the South-East and South-South regions. He noted that collective effort remains essential for sustainable development.
Addressing concerns over perceived divisions among political leaders, the governor said such claims are often exaggerated.
“Sometimes, people create in their imagination differences that don’t exist. We all work together, but what one state requires may differ from another. Comparing governors is like comparing apples and oranges,” he said.
He added that governance priorities are shaped by local realities, stressing that each state focuses on its most pressing needs, including infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Otti urged traditional rulers to continue promoting unity and fairness within their communities, describing their roles as lifelong responsibilities that extend beyond political cycles.
“If you want to go very fast, you go alone, but if you want to go far, you go together. The message is very clear — from now henceforth, we should all go together,” he said.
The governor also underscored the importance of justice in leadership, describing it as a fundamental principle for effective governance.
“Power belongs to God. Anytime you are given the opportunity to lead, it is a gift from God and you must not disappoint Him. If there is anything you take away today, it is justice — justice is fairness, equity, and righteousness,” he added.
Highlighting his administration’s approach, Otti said policies and appointments in the state are guided by merit and fairness, citing his decision to appoint a non-indigene as Head of Service.
“You cannot deny someone an opportunity because of where they come from. That is not justice. Justice must be seen and must be done,” he said.
The meeting brought together traditional rulers and government officials from across the region, with stakeholders calling for stronger collaboration to tackle insecurity, youth unemployment, and other socio-economic challenges.
