A revered monarch and traditional ruler of Rumuevuorlu Community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Eze Professor Christian Akani, has said that whoever succeeds Alex Otti as Governor of Abia State will face an enormous responsibility in sustaining the current pace of development.
Eze Professor Akani made the remark on Wednesday during a royal visit to Governor Otti at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
The traditional ruler commended the Governor for what he described as a transformation of Abia’s public image and governance trajectory, noting that the state’s reputation has significantly improved under Otti’s leadership.
“Some people may not understand the depth of my happiness. I am aware of the series of permutations that took place.
“Maybe some of you in Abia State may not know the extent to which the name of Abia State has gone because of Your Excellency (Gov. Otti).
“One thing I saw in you is your doggedness, I see confidence and you have a vision and that vision has materialized.
“We hope that whenever you leave this place, your successor will have a huge task to perform beyond what you have done,” Prof. Akani stated.
The monarch said he was in Nvosi to express solidarity and pledge support to the Governor and 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 thing you think any person can do, we are ready”, he added.
Eze Akani also invited the Governor to a programme 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, Governor Otti expressed appreciation for the visit, describing Prof. Akani as a long-standing friend whose relationship with him dates back over four decades to their university days.
He recalled that Akani was known for his bold and intellectually engaging disposition as a student, often challenging colleagues and lecturers in debates.
Governor Otti noted with satisfaction that the professor’s department is organising a remembrance event in honour of Bob Marley, describing the initiative as commendable and reflective of a commitment to preserving enduring cultural legacies.
He approved the request for the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy to represent the State Government at the event.
On national cohesion, the governor stressed the need for unity, observing that Nigerians are naturally peaceful and accommodating people who have historically coexisted across regions.
He pointed out that many Abians have lived and prospered in different parts of the country, particularly in Rivers State, contributing meaningfully to economic and social development.
According to him, perceived divisions among Nigerians are often exaggerated for political advantage and do not reflect the genuine relationships among citizens.
Governor Otti also commended the monarch for successfully combining his academic responsibilities with the demands of traditional leadership, noting that balancing both roles can be challenging, especially when community obligations intersect with academic duties.
