The Chairman of the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Dr Linus Nto Mbah (Linto), has commended Governor Alex Otti for hosting the 85th birthday celebration of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, describing the gesture as a demonstration of leadership that transcends political and geographical boundaries.
Eze Mbah gave the commendation on the sidelines of the 85th birthday ceremony organised by the Abia State Government in honour of the revered monarch at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia.
He said Governor Otti’s decision to celebrate the royal father reflects his appreciation for excellence and his recognition of individuals who have made meaningful contributions to society irrespective of their state of origin, religious beliefs or political affiliations.
According to Eze Mbah, the Governor’s action further demonstrates the high regard and respect he has for the traditional institution in Igboland and across Nigeria.
He said, “What the Governor has done in hosting the royal father shows that true leadership transcends boundaries”.
Eze Mbah noted that the celebration held in honour of Igwe Achebe was unique and symbolic, stressing the importance of celebrating distinguished personalities during their lifetime.
He described the Obi of Onitsha as a monarch who has consistently distinguished himself through exemplary leadership and service, adding that his reign has elevated the status and dignity of the traditional institution in Nigeria.
The Abia traditional rulers’ chairman further described the monarch as a business leader, philanthropist and committed Nigerian whose leadership on the throne of Onitsha over the past two decades has remained exemplary.
He said Igwe Achebe had continued to carry the royal stool with dignity and honour, noting that his reign had become a reference point for excellence in traditional leadership.
“Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe has distinguished himself and brought class and dignity to the traditional institution in Igboland and Nigeria”, he said.
On behalf of members of the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Mbah congratulated the monarch on attaining the age of 85 and prayed for more years of good health and fulfilment.
He also expressed appreciation to traditional rulers and dignitaries from across Nigeria who attended the event and contributed to its success.
Among those acknowledged were the Chairman of the South-East Traditional Rulers Council, Eze E.C. Okeke and members of the council; the Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Igwe Samuel Asadu (Odogwu); representatives of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council; traditional rulers from Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Bayelsa, Delta and Edo states, as well as members of the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council and the Igwe-in-Council.
