The Abia State Government will today host the traditional ruler, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, in celebration of his 85th birthday anniversary, in recognition of his outstanding legacy of leadership, integrity, statesmanship, and service to humanity.
The Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, had disclosed this at the State Government House, Umuahia, while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti.
Igwe Achebe had fallen out of favor with Otti’s counterpart in Anambra, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, with the monarch having been removed as the Chairman of the Anambra Traditional Rulers Council in the first term of Soludo’s administration.
Ever since, the monarch has felt insignificant while the Soludo administration lasted, with the governor failing to recognize or acknowledge him at state functions.
It is, however, not surprising to many that the Abia State Governor decided to honor the monarch with the birthday reception.
According to the Abia Information Commissioner, the planned celebration underscores the commitment of the Otti administration to honouring eminent personalities, whose lives and contributions continue to inspire younger generations and promote the ideals of responsible leadership and ethical public conduct.
He explained that Governor Alex Otti remains deeply committed to the promotion of high ethical standards in public life and the encouragement of young people to emulate distinguished role models whose lives exemplify integrity, visionary leadership, discipline, excellence, and selfless service to society, qualities, he said are widely associated with the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe.
“The Abia State Government considers the revered monarch as one of Nigeria’s most respected traditional rulers and elder statesmen, whose influence transcends traditional leadership and extends into national development, peace-building, intellectual advancement, and moral guidance.
“The forthcoming event will not only celebrate the 85th birthday milestone of the Obi of Onitsha, but will also serve as a moment of reflection on the values of honour, wisdom, accountability, and purposeful leadership which the monarch has consistently demonstrated over the years,” the Commissioner explained.
The celebration is expected to attract eminent personalities from different parts of the country, including government officials, traditional rulers, business leaders, academics, youth groups, and other stakeholders, who identify with the enduring legacy and contributions of Igwe Achebe to national growth and societal development.
