UMUAHIA — Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting meritocracy over mediocrity, stressing that his government recognizes and honours excellence irrespective of background or origin.
The governor made this known at the 75th birthday celebration of former presidential aspirant, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, held at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, where he described the celebrant as “one of the best the country has produced.”
“We are celebrating Mazi Samuel Iheanyichukwu Ohuabunwa, OFR. Today, Mazi is 75; we will be here when he is 85. We are celebrating one of the finest that this country has produced,” Otti said.
The governor praised Ohuabunwa’s integrity, patriotism, and inspiring career, noting that his principles have shaped individuals and institutions alike. He highlighted his administration’s ongoing reforms, including free education and leadership training for youths, as part of efforts to raise the next generation of leaders in Abia State.
“For us in Abia State, we celebrate meritorious people. We don’t even want to know where you come from—once you live here, you are one of us,” Otti stated, citing his appointment of an Edo indigene as head of service as proof of his inclusive governance.
Otti added that his government has made significant strides in its first two years, assuring that the next phase of his administration would record even greater impact.
In his remarks, the celebrant, Ohuabunwa, attributed his life’s success to God’s guidance and unveiled his new book, Driven by Revelation & Inspiration – My Journey through the 2023 Nigeria Presidential Aspiration and Matters Arising.
Reflecting on his political journey, Ohuabunwa said he initially doubted his presidential ambition but was compelled by a divine calling. He lamented the deep-rooted flaws in Nigeria’s political system, stressing that real change might not come until 2031.
“I’m afraid. I don’t know whether we can change the system by 2027. The 2027 game has already started. We should be looking at 2031 to change the narrative,” he said.
He further praised leaders like Governor Otti and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, noting that their financial independence shields them from corrupt practices and godfatherism that cripple many politicians.
The event, chaired by former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Ike Nwachukwu, drew an array of dignitaries including Labour Party presidential candidate, Dr Peter Obi; Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barr Ifeanyi Ossai (representing Governor Peter Mbah); former Rivers State Governor, Chief Celestine Omehia; former Minister of Mines and Steel, Dr Uche Ogah; Ohanaeze Ndigbo President-General, Senator Azuka Mbata; and HRH Eze Eberechukwu Oji of the Aro Kingdom, among others.
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