Otti Urges SE Traditional Rulers to Preserve Cultural Heritage

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has charged the traditional rulers all over the southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria to take the lead in backing and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the people.

The governor made this known on Tuesday while announcing the opening of a one-day meeting of the South East Traditional Rulers Council, which took place in Umuahia, the state capital.

He portrayed culture as an identity that defines a people.

Otti, who criticised the infighting leading to the ruin of family ties and relationships in an effort to appear as a traditional ruler in some kingdoms, referenced the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, as a model of what a king should be.

The governor stressed the temporary nature of power and urged those in positions of authority to use it responsibly, encouraging the public to hold them accountable.

He appreciated the leadership of the South East Traditional Rulers Council for opting to hold their meeting in Abia State and promised them of the welcomeness of Ndi Abia.

Speaking, the Chairman of the South East and Imo State Traditional Rulers Councils and Chairman of Imo State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze E. C. Okeke, expressed admiration for Otti's determination to transform the state.

Okeke hinted that traditional rulers in the South East are pleased with his accomplishment. 

He affirmed that the council decided to meet in Abia to discuss and make important decisions regarding issues confronting the region and appreciated Otti for the existing peace and security in the state.

In his speech, 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, applauded Governor Otti for the peaceful working relationship present between the state government and the traditional authorities.