Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has approved a Christmas bonus totalling N81.6 million for the 544 traditional rulers in the state. The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu, who confirmed that each monarch will receive N150,000 as part of the holiday gesture.
In his statement, Governor Otti emphasized the importance of the traditional institution in the state’s development and governance. He encouraged the traditional rulers to continue collaborating with his administration to ensure peace, security, and the overall progress of their communities. The bonus payment is expected to be made on or before December 10, 2024.
The chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Linus Nto Mbah, expressed appreciation for the governor’s gesture, describing it as unprecedented. He highlighted that the Christmas bonus shows Governor Otti’s recognition and respect for the role traditional rulers play in maintaining order and tradition in Abia.
The governor’s decision to grant a Christmas bonus reflects his ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with traditional rulers, whose influence is vital in rural areas. This move is seen as a way of fostering goodwill and promoting unity between the government and traditional institutions.
Governor Otti’s gesture not only boosts the morale of the traditional rulers but also shows his administration’s commitment to ensuring that all segments of the state’s leadership are recognized and supported.
