S’East govs not disunited – Otti

By Steve Oko

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has pushed back against claims of division among South-East governors, arguing that differences in governance priorities should not be misconstrued as disunity.

Otti made this known during a meeting of the South-East Traditional Rulers Council in Umuahia, where he addressed concerns over perceived cracks within the region’s political leadership.

According to the governor, comparisons among states often ignore the unique socio-economic realities that influence policy decisions.

He likened such comparisons to “apples and oranges,” stressing that each administration responds to its most urgent needs.

He maintained that collaboration among leaders remains intact, even as states pursue different development strategies in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare and education.

Beyond addressing the disunity claims, Otti used the forum to advocate stronger inter-regional cooperation, particularly between the South-East and South-South, as a pathway to sustainable growth.

The governor also placed strong emphasis on justice as a guiding principle in governance, insisting that leadership must be rooted in fairness, equity and accountability.

Highlighting his administration’s policy direction, he cited merit-based appointments, including the selection of a non-indigene as Head of Service, as evidence of his commitment to inclusive governance.

Otti further charged traditional rulers to play a stabilising role in their communities by promoting unity and fairness, describing their positions as enduring responsibilities beyond political cycles.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders across the region, with renewed calls for coordinated efforts to tackle insecurity, youth unemployment and broader development challenges.

The post S’East govs not disunited – Otti appeared first on Vanguard News.