Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to religious neutrality, emphasizing that government policies are designed to accommodate all faiths without discrimination. The assurance came during a Friday meeting with members of the Judaism Fellowship Initiative (JFI), led by Mr. Clive Lawton, OBE, President of the Commonwealth Jewish Council, London, who visited the Governor at his office.
Governor Otti addressed concerns raised by the Jewish delegation regarding national elections coinciding with the Sabbath, explaining that adjusting Nigeria’s electoral timetable is complex due to the differing days of worship across religious communities. He assured the group that Sabbath observers could still exercise their voting rights after services while advocating for a broader national dialogue on the issue.
Highlighting his administration’s policy of keeping religion separate from governance, the Governor said such neutrality helps prevent conflicts that often arise from religious or ethnic divides. He noted that the engagement with the Jewish community brought to light their historical presence in Abia and reiterated that all faiths are treated equally under his government’s policies.
On the delegation’s request for land to establish a Jewish Centre, Governor Otti clarified that access to state land is open to all groups through formal applications and statutory fees, while noting that the government does not provide funding for religious activities outside of official pilgrimages. He encouraged the visitors to explore Abia’s markets, support local products, and experience the state’s renowned hospitality.
Mr. Clive Lawton, OBE, described Governor Otti as a “bridge builder” and expressed confidence in his dedication to fostering understanding among faith communities. He highlighted challenges faced by Jewish communities in Nigeria, including limited public awareness of their history and practices, and the difficulty of participating in elections held on Saturdays. He also appealed for official recognition of Judaism, allocation of land for a Jewish Centre in Abia, financial support akin to that given to Christian and Muslim pilgrims, and the appointment of a government liaison officer for the Jewish community.
The meeting was attended by key members of the Governor’s team, including Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D., and Special Adviser on Religious Affairs, Pastor K.C. Wiper, among other senior government officials.
The visit underscores Governor Otti’s commitment to inclusive governance and the promotion of peaceful coexistence among all religious communities in Abia State.
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