From Maurice Okafor, Enugu
Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF), one of the foremost socio-cultural organisations in the Igbo nation, has declared its support for the achievements of Governor Alex Otti, especially in the area of socio-infrastructural development of Abia State, and cautioned critics against actions that could distract him from his agenda.
The group made the call in a press statement issued to newsmen in Enugu yesterday.
The statement, jointly signed by ADF President, Nze Coleman Chukwudi; Secretary, Ifeanyi Ochonogior; and Chairman, ADF Board of Trustees, Prof. T. U. Uzodinma Nwala, said engaging the governor in needless political battles at this time would not help to consolidate the ongoing developmental strides in the state or benefit the larger Igbo nation.
Part of the statement reads: “It is our concern that any action to the contrary on Governor Otti will surely negatively affect the development trajectory which is currently taking place in Abia state. This will include the chances of the Igbo nation to overcome the present state of the Enemy’s bellingerent assault on our unity and development.”
ADF noted that the part of the Igbo nation presently known as Abia State has always evoked nostalgic memories among Umuigbo, both young and old.
The organisation said it had consistently supported Governor Alex Otti out of the conviction that he possesses the capacity to lead the state.
“We did it because it dawned on our leadership even at that historic juncture that Dr Alex Otti has the potential and the capacity to lead and chart a new course for Abia state, a state which, we have always considered, a major part and the heartland of Alaigbo’,” ADF stressed.
The group, in the statement, also urged Igbo sons and daughters across the world to begin to recognise and honour leaders who have made sacrifices for the interest and survival of the Igbo nation.
