No Religious Discrimination in Abia — Governor Alex Otti

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed that his administration remains firmly committed to fairness, inclusion, and equal treatment for every resident, regardless of religious affiliation. The governor emphasized that the current leadership structure in the state is intentionally designed to reflect neutrality, ensuring that no religious community is marginalized or treated unfairly.

Governor Otti made this assurance on Friday while hosting members of the Judaism Fellowship Initiative, who were accompanied by Mr. Clive Obe, President of the Commonwealth Jewish Council in London. The delegation visited the governor at his office to discuss issues surrounding religious freedom and peaceful coexistence in Abia State.

During the meeting, the group expressed concerns about the scheduling of national elections in Nigeria, which often fall on Saturdays — a sacred day of worship for the Jewish community. In response, Governor Otti explained that adjusting the national election calendar is a complicated issue because Nigeria is home to diverse religions, each with unique worship days and practices.

He noted that decisions regarding election dates fall under federal jurisdiction and involve broad considerations to ensure they do not conflict with the cultural and spiritual obligations of various religious groups across the country. While acknowledging their concerns, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s openness to dialogue, assuring them that Abia State will continue to protect the rights and freedoms of every religious community.

Governor Otti further emphasized that his government remains focused on promoting unity, strengthening interfaith relationships, and fostering an atmosphere where citizens from all religious backgrounds can thrive without fear of discrimination.

He reiterated that Abia is a state built on respect, tolerance, and the shared vision of progress, assuring the delegation that his administration will always support initiatives aimed at enhancing peaceful religious coexistence.