Otti Warns Traditional Rulers Against Bias, Emphasises Justice

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has cautioned traditional rulers in the South-East and South-South regions against taking sides in disputes, stressing that bias undermines justice and threatens peace in society.

Speaking on Friday while declaring open a joint meeting of the South-East and South-South Traditional Rulers Council at the JAAC Building in Umuahia, Otti described leadership as a divine responsibility that must be exercised with fairness, equity, and accountability.

He urged the royal fathers to remain impartial, particularly in conflict resolution, noting that justice is the foundation of any peaceful and progressive society.

“If there is one thing to take away from this gathering, it is justice. If you are in a position to dispense justice, do so without bias. The moment you take sides in settling disputes, justice is compromised,” the governor said.

Otti emphasised that, unlike political office holders, traditional rulers occupy lifelong positions, placing them in a unique position to sustain justice and stability in their communities.

Highlighting his administration’s commitment to fairness, the governor cited the appointment of a non-indigene as Abia’s Head of Service, noting that merit remains the guiding principle of his government.

He also called for greater unity among leaders in the South-East and South-South, dismissing claims of disunity among governors in the region. According to him, differences in policies are based on varying developmental priorities.

Welcoming participants, Otti described the meeting as a symbol of unity and shared responsibility. He noted its coincidence with the Eid-el-Fitr celebration and appreciated the organisers for choosing Abia as the host state. He also announced that the state would host the 85th birthday celebration of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, on May 15, 2026, in Umuahia.

In his remarks, Chairman of the South-South Traditional Rulers Council, King Chidi Awuse, stressed the importance of peace and collaboration between traditional and political leaders for community development. He called for stronger ties between the two regions to enhance progress and national unity.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Dr. Linus Nto Mba, commended the Otti administration for its developmental strides. He, however, expressed concern over declining cultural values, rising insecurity, and divisions within communities.

Eze Nto Mba urged traditional rulers to uphold their roles as custodians of culture and promoters of unity and moral values. He also called for closer collaboration with government to strengthen local security and appealed to President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the release of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, as a step toward easing tensions in the region.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, highlighted the critical role of traditional rulers in grassroots governance, culture, and peacebuilding. He called for stronger regional cooperation to address common challenges such as security, youth development, and economic growth.

The meeting was attended by prominent traditional rulers from across the South-East and South-South regions.