Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti has cautioned traditional rulers across the South-East and South-South zones against bias in the discharge of their duties, warning that taking sides in disputes undermines justice and threatens societal harmony.
Governor Otti who gave the warning on Friday while declaring open the South East, South South Traditional Rulers Council meeting held at the JAAC Building in Umuahia, noted that leadership is a divine trust that must not be abused.
The Governor urged the traditional rulers to uphold justice, fairness and equity in the discharge of their responsibilities.
He further stressed that fairness, equity and righteousness must guide the decisions of the royal father’s especially in conflict resolution.
According to the Governor, justice remains the foundation of peaceful and progressive societies, noting that justice collapses the moment a leader becomes biased.
“If there’s nothing you take away from my small talk this morning or this afternoon, it’s justice. If you are in a position to dispense justice, please do it.
“If you are trying to settle a case and you take a position, justice has been sacrificed”, Governor Otti added.
The Governor described leadership as a divine responsibility, insisting that those privileged to lead must do so with a deep sense of accountability to God and the society.
He also emphasised the enduring role of traditional rulers, noting that unlike political office holders, their positions are not time-bound which places them in a better position to uphold justice in their communities.
Governor Otti who cited the appointment of a non-indigene in Abia as Head of Service, based purely on merit said it is a demonstrating of his administration’s commitment to justice and fairness.
The Governor used the occasion to call for unity among leaders across the South East and South South regions, stressing that collective progress can only be achieved through collaboration.
He dismissed insinuations of disunity among South-East Governors, explaining that differences in policy focus are driven by varying developmental needs.
Governor Otti reiterated that justice must remain the guiding principle for both traditional and political leaders, insisting that equitable treatment of all citizens is key to sustainable peace and development.
The Governor, while welcoming participants from the South East and South-South zones to Abia State, described the gathering as a symbol of unity and shared responsibility.
He noted the significance of its coincidence with the Eid-el-Fitr celebration and expressed appreciation to the organisers for selecting Abia as the host State.
Governor Otti announced that the State Government will, on Friday, 15 May 2026, host the 85th birthday celebration in Umuahia in honour of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Afred Nnaemeka Achebe.
The Chairman of the South-South Traditional Rulers Council, King Chidi Awuse, in his remarks underscored the value of peace and the need for traditional rulers to work closely with political leaders for the benefit of their communities.
King Awuse who called for stronger unity between the South-East and South-South regions reiterated that cooperation and solidarity are essential for regional progress and national cohesion.
In his speech, the Chairman of the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Dr Linus Nto Mba, while welcoming participants, commended the Otti led Government for its support and developmental strides across all sectors of the State economy.
Eze Nto Mbah expressed concern over the erosion of cultural values, increasing divisions and insecurity within communities and urged traditional rulers to uphold their responsibilities as custodians of culture, promoters of unity, peace and moral values.
The Traditional ruler advocated closer collaboration with government to strengthen local security frameworks and called for greater unity among Igbo people.
He also appealed to Bola Tinubu to facilitate the release of detained Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu, stressing that such a move would help ease tensions and promote lasting peace in the region.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, highlighted the critical role of traditional rulers as custodians of culture, peace and grassroots governance.
Prince Nwachukwu called for stronger regional collaboration among traditional rulers of the South East and South South regions to address shared challenges, particularly in security, youth development and economic growth.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Otti’s administration to people-oriented development and highlighted key achievements of the present administration in road infrastructure, healthcare revitalisation, education reforms and institutional transparency among others.
The Traditional Rulers Council meeting was attended by high ranking traditional rulers from South East and South South regions.
