2 months ago
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Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has urged traditional rulers across the South East to be at the forefront of promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the people.
Otti spoke on Tuesday while declaring open a one-day meeting of the South East Traditional Rulers Council held in Umuahia, the state capital.
He described culture as an identity that defines a people.
The governor, who frowned at the infighting leading to the destruction of family ties and relationships in an effort to emerge as a traditional ruler in some kingdoms, cited the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, as an example of what a monarch should be.
While describing power as transient, Otti said that he sees power as an opportunity to show stewardship, calling on the people to hold those in authority accountable.
According to him, the leadership in Abia State under his administration is seen as stewardship; hence, he is delivering services to the people without self-aggrandisement.
He thanked the leadership of the South East Traditional Rulers Council for choosing to hold their meeting in Abia State and assured them of the hospitality of Ndi Abia.
“Everyone that emerges as a leader is answerable to the people. A good leader should be a good listener,” he said.
In his address, the Chairman of South East Traditional Rulers Council and Chairman of Imo State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze E. C. Okeke, appreciated Otti’s determination to transform the state.
Okeke added that traditional rulers in the South East are proud of his achievements.
He said that the council resolved to meet in Abia to discuss and make critical decisions on issues confronting the region and thanked Otti for the prevailing peace and security in the state.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Linus Mbah and the Chairman of Umuahia North Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Innocent Nwaigwe, commended Otti for the harmonious working relationship existing between the state government and the traditional institution.
