Governor Otti Urges Competence, Due Process In Traditional Ruler Selection

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has emphasized the importance of due process and competence in the selection of traditional rulers, cautioning against the imposition of monarchs based on financial strength.

Speaking today during a meeting with royal fathers from the South East Council of Traditional Rulers, held at the JAAC Secretariat in Umuahia, Governor Otti expressed concern over rising civil unrest in communities due to disputes surrounding the selection process of kings.

The Abia governor reminded the monarchs of the critical role traditional institutions play in Nigeria’s democracy and urged them to view their positions as a privilege and a call to service, rather than an entitlement.

He stated, “It is important I remind people who have been given the privilege to preside over a people that power is transient. If you are allowed to serve, you should serve with humility.”

He stressed the need for fair and transparent selection processes to maintain peace and unity within communities.

“I also want to encourage our people to hold leadership into account. Everyone that has emerged as a leader is answerable to the people that have installed him,” the governor said.

Furthermore, Governor Otti praised Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Ogidi, Chairman of the Anambra State Council of Traditional Rulers for his unwavering support and the bundle of knowledge he had shared subsequently. He also expressed his happiness to have people who ensure that Culture and Traditions are preserved.

In his remarks, Eze E.C. Okeke, Chairman of the South East Council of Traditional Rulers and Chairman of the Imo Traditional Rulers Council, praised Governor Otti for his efforts in transforming Abia State.

Okeke also noted that the council’s decision to meet in Abia was to address key issues affecting the region and adopt resolutions to tackle them.

Adding his voice, Eze Linus Mba, Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as a step toward ensuring lasting peace in the region.

The Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Samuel Asadu, also spoke to THE WHISTLER, “We encourage our people and subjects to obey the laws of the land while we also manage the security at home by dealing and empowering neighbourhood watches and Vigilantes.”

The event saw the attendance of prominent royal fathers, including His Royal Majesty, Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, Eze Lucky Okoro, the Obi of Onitsha etc.

Governor Otti Urges Competence, Due Process In Traditional Ruler Selection is first published on The Whistler Newspaper