Traditional rulers in Abia State say they finally feel respected again—and they’re giving credit to Governor Alex Otti.

Speaking during a gathering of the Old Bende Progressive Union in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, the Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Linus Nto Mbah, praised the Governor for restoring the dignity of monarchs across the state and making real progress in infrastructure development.

According to Eze Nto Mbah, traditional rulers had suffered for years under previous administrations due to poor welfare packages that didn’t match the important roles they play in maintaining peace, cultural heritage, and community development. “Before now, what we received as monthly stipends was far from encouraging,” he said. “But Governor Otti changed that. We now receive the highest stipend for traditional rulers in the entire South East.”

Beyond improved welfare for monarchs, the royal father said the current administration has prioritized road construction, enhanced security, and provided a better environment for investment, both in the cities and remote areas.

He urged Abians living abroad to take advantage of these improvements and invest back home, highlighting that the state is becoming more business-friendly under Otti’s leadership.

Eze Nto Mbah also commended Governor Otti for managing the state's resources wisely, particularly for not resorting to borrowing to fund development projects. “He has done more with less,” he emphasized.

Wrapping up his address, he called on the Abia diaspora community to support Governor Otti’s second-term bid in 2027, saying continuity is key to sustaining the current positive momentum in the state.