Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to recognising and celebrating individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the progress of the state and the nation.
Governor Otti stated this at the weekend during a special event organised by the Abia State Government at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, to honour Elder statesman, Dr Uma Eleazu, and his wife, Elder Mrs Njansi Eleazu, on their 95th and 85th birthdays respectively.
The Governor noted that the culture of celebrating distinguished Abians has become a hallmark of his administration, emphasising that such recognition is not determined by political affiliations but by merit and service.
“So we are challenging all of you. Put something on the table. Contribute to Abia State and Nigeria at large. It doesn’t matter who you are, we celebrate you.
“It doesn’t matter what political party you belong to. We have celebrated people that are active politicians in APC, in PDP. We don’t care.
“Our state is political-party blind. We pay attention to the contribution you can make. Forget about all the noise. It’s just noise. And you know, like it is said, it’s the empty barrel that makes the most noise,” Governor Otti said.
The Governor disclosed that the State Government would soon honour other notable Abians, including Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (rtd.) and General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd.), both of whom turned 85 this year.
While congratulating Dr and Mrs Eleazu, the Governor commended the elder statesman for his intellectual contributions to national discourse, particularly through his new book, “Nigeria’s Democracy Under Siege: Rebuilding the Ramparts of Democracy.”
He urged citizens to emulate Dr Eleazu’s example by leaving enduring legacies.
“If a 95-year-old man can sit down and put his thoughts together so that people can read and learn, nobody should give excuses,” he said.
In his response, Elder Dr Uma Eleazu commended Governor Otti for his people-centred governance and achievements, including the remodelling of the Michael Okpara Auditorium.
“The happiness index of Abia State has moved from minus zero to about 80 per cent in only two years. What if he (Governor Otti) stays the remaining two years and another four years? Do you know what Abia will look like?
“In Government House, there will be no vacancy until he has completed his eight years,” Dr Eleazu declared.
The event was attended by dignitaries including former Deputy Governor Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, federal and state lawmakers, among others, and also featured the launch of Dr Eleazu’s new book and the cutting of the birthday cake.
