Recently, the luxurious Ikoyi residence of Dr. Desmond Chima Anyaso was transformed into a dazzling hub of Igbo eminence, as distinguished billionaires, technocrats, and politicians converged to celebrate the achievements of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, of Abia State.
This extraordinary gathering, hailed as a celebration of southeastern progress, drew prominent figures from across the nation, including the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party gubernatorial candidate for Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, and the PDP gubernatorial candidate for Ebonyi State, Dr. Ifeanyi Odii.
The event was a showcase of business brilliance, featuring the presence of renowned entrepreneurs like Allen Onyema (Air Peace), Prof. Obiora Okonkwo (United Nigeria Airlines), Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana), Pascal Okechukwu (Cubana Chief Priest), Ngozi Ekeoma (NEPAL Group), Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi (Obi Jackson, Nestoil), Oliver Alawuba (UBA), and Joseph Eze Okafor (Jowizazaa).
In his opening remarks, Dr. Anyaso attributed the high-caliber attendance to Governor Otti’s exemplary leadership in Abia State. He described the gathering as a symbolic New Year’s visit that underscored the shared optimism and unity among the distinguished guests.
Chief UD Kalu captured the sentiment of many when he declared, “Previously, we hesitated to proclaim our origin from Abia State, but today, the narrative has changed. We take pride in your efforts, and now we are esteemed Abians.”
Ngozi Ekeoma added a spiritual dimension, citing scripture: “We have gained insight because, in the past, we were blind, but now our vision is clear.”
She urged Governor Otti to maintain his focus on development, lauding his administration’s progress.
In his address, Governor Alex Otti expressed profound gratitude to Dr. Anyaso and his wife for hosting the event. He acknowledged the immense support from those present and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to purposeful governance.
Governor Otti emphasized the importance of strong leadership, stating, “By doing well at the top, all other aspects align. Our administration is dedicated to ensuring that Abia State’s resources serve its population. When leadership refrains from corruption, it becomes arduous for subordinates to engage in malpractice.”
Addressing internal opposition, he likened detractors to individuals whose reliance on unethical practices had been disrupted, remarking that their resistance stemmed from the dismantling of corrupt systems. He assured the audience that 95% of Abians supported his administration’s progressive agenda.
Concluding the evening, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, commended Governor Otti’s performance, stating, “Open opposition often signifies effective governance. While conversing with some people here, they expressed that their presence tonight is a testament to your commendable performance.
“Governor Otti is excelling, and it is imperative that we reinforce his efforts.”
Obi further urged Otti to prioritize the welfare of the underprivileged, reminding everyone that “the well-off can fend for themselves.”
The evening exemplified the unity and shared aspirations of Igbo leaders, magnates, and technocrats.
Together, they celebrated Governor Alex Otti’s transformative leadership in Abia State and reaffirmed their collective commitment to the progress of the region.
