BREAKING NEWS: Gov. Otti Urges Igbos to Put Collective Interests Above Personal Differences

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has called on the Igbo people to prioritise their collective interests and shared aspirations over individual differences, stressing that unity remains essential to the development and prosperity of Ndigbo.

Otti made the call on Tuesday in Umuahia during the celebration of Igbo Day, where he spoke on the theme, “Ohanaeze: History and the Dreams of Tomorrow.”

The governor highlighted the courage, resilience, enterprise and communal values inherited from Igbo ancestors, describing them as important foundations for building a stronger and more prosperous future.

According to him, disagreements among Ndigbo are inevitable, but such differences should not overshadow their common goals and aspirations.

“Unity does not mean unanimity of opinion on every issue, but a consciousness that our individual desires cannot be superior to the aspirations of the majority,” Otti said.

Also speaking at the event, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, John Azuta-Mbata, urged Ndigbo to critically examine the future they desire for themselves and Nigeria.

Mbata stressed the importance of presenting a united front, noting that greater cohesion would strengthen the ability of Ndigbo to advance their interests and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“Our people must bind together. We must deliberately move together so that we can take our rightful place in Nigeria and the world,” he said.

Mbata also joined Governor Otti in laying a wreath in honour of Igbo people who lost their lives during past conflicts.

Reflecting on the Nigerian Civil War of 1967–1970, the Ohanaeze leader expressed regret over the loss of more than three million Igbo lives, describing the tragedy as a painful part of the people's history.

The speakers used the occasion to emphasise the need for unity, collective responsibility and a shared vision as Ndigbo look towards the future.