Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has urged Ndigbo to move beyond nostalgia and focus on building strong, future-oriented institutions capable of securing the destiny of generations yet unborn.
Otti made the call on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, while serving as Special Guest of Honour at the public presentation of the book, Ohanaeze at 50: The Burden of Memory, The Politics of Relevance – A Critical Biographical Reflection of an Igbo Institution, authored by Agbaeze Ireke Kalu Onuma (AI-KO).
The 602-page book was unveiled at the Dover Hotel Event Hall, 14 Aromire Street, Ikeja, Lagos.
Speaking on the theme, “Ohanaeze at 50: A Book That Holds Up The Mirror,” Otti described the publication as more than a historical account of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, saying it offers a critical reflection on memory, identity, leadership, responsibility and the future of the Igbo people.
The governor said the 50th anniversary of an institution should not be viewed merely as an occasion for celebration, but as an opportunity for sober reflection on its journey, relevance and future direction.
An institution cannot live indefinitely on the strength of its history. Heritage gives an organisation legitimacy, but relevance must be earned continuously,” Otti said.
He said the book challenges Ndigbo to confront important questions about what Ohanaeze has become, what it should become and what it must do to remain relevant in a changing society.
According to him, the future of Ndigbo cannot be secured by history alone, but through institutions capable of understanding the aspirations of young people, embracing technology and innovation, engaging the global Igbo diaspora and converting cultural identity into economic, intellectual and political strength.
Otti also praised the author’s use of the iroko tree as a metaphor for Ohanaeze, noting that although the tree may be deeply rooted and enduring, it must continue to grow new branches to remain alive.
Its roots may explain its strength, but its new branches and leaves determine whether it remains a living tree or not,” he said.»
The governor added that the key question was not whether Ohanaeze had a glorious history, but whether that history could serve as the foundation for a more consequential future.
Otti called for the development of institutions capable of outliving individual personalities and political seasons, describing the book as both a reflection on the past and a call for institutional renewal.
He commended the author for his courage and recommended the book to those interested in the history, identity, unity and future of Ndigbo.
In his opening remarks, Chairman of the occasion, Elder U.K. Eke, MFR, former Group Managing Director of FBN Holdings Plc, urged stakeholders to translate the ideas contained in the book into practical action.
Eke said the book makes a compelling case for reviewing governance frameworks necessary for regional transformation, expressing confidence that Otti, alongside other South-East governors, would contribute to driving such transformation.
The book reviewer, Prof. Okey Anueyiagu, also linked some of the themes in the publication to Otti’s political journey, describing the governor’s experience as a story of resilience and service.
Anueyiagu recalled a conversation with Otti several years ago, when the governor expressed his desire to lead his people.
According to him, Otti told him at the time: “My brother, I want to lead my people.”
Anueyiagu said he initially questioned whether Otti could withstand the challenges associated with Nigerian politics, but recalled Otti’s determination to serve his people despite the risks.
He also recounted Otti’s unsuccessful first governorship bid and the legal battle that followed, noting that the experience did not deter him from returning to the political arena.
At two o’clock, we got the call: not successful. Alex turned to me and said, ‘I will come back.’ And he came back. And he became governor. That is resilience. That is brave,” Anueyiagu recalled.»
He said the essence of being Igbo should include contributing to the development of Nigeria, stressing that “We belong to one Nigeria.”
Responding, the author, Agbaeze Ireke Kalu Onuma, said the book was written to be read, discussed and engaged with, rather than merely displayed as a coffee-table publication.
Onuma commended Otti’s administration, saying his experience demonstrated that a transition from the private sector to public service could produce positive results. He also expressed optimism that Abia State would continue to make progress.
The event climaxed with the formal unveiling of the book by Governor Otti.
The foreword to the book was written by Elder Dr. Uma O. Eleazu, OON, who was also present at the event.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi; Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe; the Obi of Onitsha, HRM Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR, mni; and the Enachioken of Abiriba, HRM Eze Kalu Ogbu IV, alongside other prominent guests.
