No Religious Discrimination in Abia State, Says Governor Otti

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti has assured the Judaism Fellowship Initiative (JFI) and the entire state population that his administration is neutrally structured to accommodate all religious faiths, emphasizing that no religion is discriminated against in the state.

The Governor made this statement on Friday during a visit by members of the JFI, led by the President of the Commonwealth Jewish Council, London, Mr. Clive Obe.

Governor Otti stated that his administration deliberately keeps religion out of governance to prevent conflicts often triggered by religious or ethnic divides.

He assured the Jewish community of equal support from his administration and clarified the state’s policy on funding.

The government does not fund religious activities, except for pilgrimages. Regarding their request for land, the Governor explained that the process is open to all groups through formal application and payment of statutory fees.

The delegation, which serves as the umbrella body for Jewish communities in Nigeria, reiterated its concern over elections being held on Saturdays, which makes participation difficult for Jews who observe the Sabbath (Saturday).

Governor Otti addressed the complexity of the issue, noting that changing the national election timetable is difficult due to the differing days of worship observed by various faiths across Nigeria.

He suggested that Sabbath observers could potentially vote after service, pending a final national decision on the matter, given that general elections occur only once every four years.

Earlier, Mr. Clive Obe praised Governor Otti as a bridge builder and expressed confidence in his commitment to promoting understanding among faith communities.