Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has emphasized that the agitation for Biafra has nothing to do with Nnamdi Kanu, Simon Ekpa, or MASSOB, but rather about fairness and equal opportunities for the Igbo people within Nigeria.
Speaking at the 70th birthday celebration of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, Otti clarified that the modern Biafra struggle is rooted in the quest for justice and recognition for Ndigbo.
“The Biafra fight is not about Nnamdi Kanu or any other agitators. If you read the book we unveiled today, you will understand what the struggle is truly about,” he stated.
Otti further stressed that while the Biafra of old may not be possible, the concept lives on in the minds of those seeking equality.
“We want to be equal citizens; we want to be treated fairly. That is the challenge before Senate President Akpabio. All we ask for is equal opportunity,” he added.
The governor also commended Abaribe for his courage and commitment to truth, describing him as a fearless leader worthy of celebration.
“We are here to honor a man who is selfless and unafraid to speak truth to power. At times, we feared for him, but God has preserved him. His courage is a gift of grace,” Otti remarked.
He also announced plans to celebrate other distinguished Abians, including Senator Chris Adighije, Bright Chimezie, Paulson Kalu, and the late Jaja Wachukwu.
In response, Senator Abaribe expressed gratitude to God and credited his late father for instilling in him values of honesty and bravery. He urged leaders to implement policies that would improve citizens’ living conditions.
“My frankness is a product of the virtues my father taught me,” Abaribe said, while also thanking Otti for the recognition.
Earlier, in a sermon, Pastor Chimezie Iheoma of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church praised Abaribe’s impact on society. The event featured the unveiling of Abaribe’s book, Unbundled, and a ceremonial cake cutting.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio lauded Governor Otti for his developmental efforts and for honoring Abaribe’s contributions to the state and the nation.
