Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has pledged the support of the five South-East governors to the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, John Mbata.
During a visit to Otti’s Umuehim Nvosi country home in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area on Tuesday, Mbata and the Deputy National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Okey Nwadinobi, expressed gratitude for Otti’s backing during the recent Ohanaeze elections.
Speaking at the event, Otti commended Mbata for his qualities of integrity, fairness, and transparency.
“Although the task ahead is not easy, I am confident you will succeed. The seven of us governors have no personal interests. Our focus is the development and unity of our people. If anyone asks you to deviate from this mission, they are out of line,” Otti said.
He praised Mbata’s leadership qualities, stating, “President-General, I have known you for decades. Just as you spoke kindly about me, I can vouch for you. I know your capacity and what you stand for—consistency, truthfulness, fairness, equity, and transparency.”
Otti underscored his administration’s priorities, including prompt salary payments, infrastructure improvement, and rural development, while highlighting his belief that leadership should prioritise the people’s welfare.
He assured Mbata of the collective support of South-East governors, emphasising their shared goal to foster unity and progress among the Igbo people.
In response, Mbata thanked Otti and the governors for their support, which he credited for his emergence as Ohanaeze President-General.
“Your presence on election day, January 10, underscored the importance you place on the Ohanaeze institution,” Mbata said.
He added, “We will pay an official visit with the new executive team soon, but on a personal level, I felt it was important to express our gratitude and pledge our commitment to consultation, collaboration, and cooperation.”
Mbata also praised Otti’s accomplishments in Abia State, noting that they reflected his reputation for excellence.
“Having known you for a long time, I expected nothing less than excellence,” he said.
