Governor Alex Otti has reiterated his stance that political affiliation will not influence his recognition and celebration of distinguished individuals in Abia State.
Speaking at the 80th birthday celebration of Senator Chris Adighije, organized by the state government at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, Otti emphasized that “brotherhood comes first” before political party considerations.
Otti, who is a member of the Labour Party, honored Adighije, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former senator representing Abia Central from 2003 to 2007.
The governor has also previously celebrated prominent figures from other political parties, including former Senate President and current Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Adolphus Wabara, as well as Dr. Eme Okoro and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
Addressing a large gathering at the event, Otti stressed that all Abians share a common identity beyond political divisions. He invited individuals with innovative ideas to contribute to the state’s progress, assuring that his administration is open to input regardless of party affiliation.
“I am blind to political parties,” Otti declared. “What matters to me is the development of Abia. If you have a great idea from APC, PDP, or APGA, bring it. But if it’s just to engage in baseless talk, keep it outside.”
He also dismissed any political motives behind his recognition of accomplished Abians, vowing to continue celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
Otti praised Senator Adighije as an honest man who stands for justice and integrity, stating, “He is not like those who say one thing and mean another. People call hypocrisy ‘political pragmatism,’ but if that’s pragmatism, I want no part of it. If I say yes, it’s yes; if I say no, it’s no, and I will give my reasons.”
Revisiting Pension Arrears Issue
Earlier in the day, during a church service at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Umuahia, Otti responded to an appeal by Reverend Earnest Onyukwu regarding the lingering issue of pension arrears for Abia retirees.
The governor blamed the controversy on the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), alleging that they were influenced by the opposition to undermine his administration.
Otti stated that despite his government’s efforts, including a N10 billion payout to clear pension arrears accumulated by previous administrations, the NUP leadership engaged in misinformation.
“Nobody was paid pensions in 2018, and that is a fact,” Otti said. “The past government did not pay a dime, and the NUP leadership was partly responsible. They entered into an agreement with me, and after I fulfilled my part, they claimed they had signed under duress. That angered me, but since the Reverend has spoken, I will take another look at it.”
He urged pensioners to be cautious about their associations, questioning why they would align with those who had previously neglected them.
Honoring Senator Adighije
As part of the celebrations, Otti inaugurated the Senator Chris Adighije Health Insurance Complex (SCAHIC), named in honor of the former senator by the FMC Board and Management.
The Chief Medical Director of FMC, Professor Azubuike Onyebuchi, explained that the honor was in recognition of Adighije’s contributions as Chairman of the hospital’s Governing Board.
Onyebuchi also addressed past issues in the health insurance system, stating that digital reforms have been introduced to curb fraudulent activities.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event drew several high-profile guests, including former Senate Presidents David Mark and Adolphus Wabara, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chinedum Onyia.
Others included former Anambra State Governor Senator Chris Ngige, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and Minister of Finance Dr. Wale Edun.
Senator Adighije, expressing gratitude for the honor, thanked Governor Otti and the guests for celebrating his 80th birthday. His daughter, Jennifer Adighije, Chief Executive Officer of Niger Delta Power Holding, described him as a source of inspiration and commended the governor for recognizing his contributions.
