Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his commitment to religious tolerance and inclusivity as he hosted Abia’s Muslim community for Eid-el-Fitr. He pledged infrastructural development, addressed concerns over the Muslim cemetery issue, and called for unity among Nigerians.
….. Governor Otti Calls for Religious Tolerance, Assures Muslim Community of Inclusivity in Abia
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reiterated his commitment to fostering peace, unity, and religious tolerance as he hosted members of the Muslim community in Abia State for the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr celebration. The event, which took place at the Governor’s country home in Nvosi, was marked by goodwill messages, prayers, and discussions on inclusive governance.
Governor Otti, in his address, emphasized that his administration does not discriminate based on religion, tribe, or gender. He attributed societal divisions and conflicts to a lack of understanding among Nigerians, stressing the need for mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
“I believe that a lot of the issues we face today arise from a lack of understanding. If we recognize that God created us all equally, there would be no room for discrimination or religious intolerance. My administration is built on inclusivity, which is why we have abolished the ‘State of Origin’ mentality in Abia. If you live here, contribute to the state’s development, and pay your taxes, then you are from here,” Governor Otti stated.
The Governor also took the opportunity to update the Muslim community on infrastructural projects, assuring them that the reconstruction of Ohanko Road in Aba, which is being executed with durable cement pavement technology, would be completed by the end of April.
Governor Otti Assures Action on Muslim Cemetery Issue
Responding to the concerns raised by the Muslim community regarding the revocation of the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for their cemetery in Umuahia by the previous administration, Governor Otti assured that his government would look into the matter and find a resolution that respects the rights of all parties involved.
The Governor further extended his congratulations to the Muslim faithful on successfully completing the Ramadan fast, noting the similarities between Ramadan and the Christian Lent period. He expressed appreciation to the Muslim community for their unwavering support before, during, and after the 2023 elections in Abia State.
Gen. Ihejirika Advocates for Religious Tolerance and National Unity
Also speaking at the event, former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd.), congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of Ramadan and the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. He emphasized the importance of religious and ethnic tolerance in achieving national peace, security, and unity.
“Our nation will only progress when we embrace one another in love and mutual respect. Religious tolerance is a key factor in ensuring sustainable peace, and we must all play our part in strengthening our bond as one people,” Gen. Ihejirika remarked.
Muslim Leaders Laud Governor Otti’s Inclusive Governance
The Chief Imam of Abia State, Sheikh Ali Ukiwo, while delivering his speech, described the Sallah celebration as a time of thanksgiving and reflection. He acknowledged the Governor’s leadership in restoring hope to Abians and expressed gratitude for his sponsorship of their pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj.
In their remarks, the Sarki Hausa of Umuahia and Chairman of the South-South/South-East Traditional Rulers Council, Sarki Yaro Danladi, along with the Sarki of the Aba Muslim Community, Sarki Shehu Bello, commended Governor Otti for his infrastructural development efforts in Aba and beyond. They also urged the government to consider measures to decongest Aba’s growing commercial activities.
The event was attended by top government officials and community leaders, further underscoring the commitment of the Otti-led administration to fostering inclusivity and religious harmony in Abia State.
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