By Correspondent in Abuja.
Former Attorney General of Imo State, Chukwuma Ume, SAN, has lauded Governor Alex Otti of Abia State for appointing Edo-born Benson Ojeikere as the state’s Head of Service (HoS), describing the move as a triumph of meritocracy over parochialism.
In a letter to the governor dated August 12 and made available to journalists on Thursday in Abuja, Ume said Ojeikere’s elevation reflected Otti’s unwavering commitment to excellence, competence, and integrity in public service.
“The appointment of Mr. Benson Ojeikere, a bright son of Edo State, as Head of Service in Abia is a rare and powerful statement that leadership should be defined not by ethnicity or state of origin, but by character, competence, and contribution,” Ume wrote.
According to the senior lawyer, the appointment sends a strong message that “progress in governance is not about the length of one’s political reach, but about the height of one’s moral and visionary compass.”
Ojeikere’s journey in Abia began in 1999 when, as a youth corps member from Edo State, he emerged as the best corps member in the state and earned automatic employment in the Abia civil service.
In 2023, Governor Otti appointed him as a Permanent Secretary, following his outstanding performance in a competitive selection process.
He served in the Government House until his recent promotion to Head of Service.
Ume described the appointment as a vivid reminder of the original vision of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), a platform where young Nigerians can settle in any part of the country, contribute to its development, and rise through merit.
“You have rekindled the spirit that built this nation, the courage to reward hard work, intelligence, and patriotism without prejudice,” Ume told Governor Otti.
He expressed confidence that Ojeikere’s story would inspire Nigerian youths to build lasting bonds, promote national integration, and embrace a shared sense of destiny.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
