The foremost traditional ruler of Ngwa Clan, who is also the Ezeukwu of Ngwa Ukwu, His Eminence, Eze Bernard Enweremadu, has charged Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, to do his best to unite the people of the state.

The monarch who gave the charge when the governor paid him a visit at his Ahiaba Okpuala palace Friday, also described the governor as a blessing to Abia and enjoined him to strive to leave a lasting legacy.

Receiving his august visitor, Eze Enweremadu urged Ikpeazu to see himself as the father of every Abian, and accommodate his opponents.

“As Governor of Abia State, you’re the father to every Abian. If you have not been told, I want to tell you that you’re a blessing to Abia State and the entire Igbo race. And God has brought you to rebuild Abia.

“Governor, do everything to unite Abia. Don't listen to those who will come to you to sow a seed of discord between you and your people. Forgive your political opponents, those who want to work with you, welcome and accommodate them, but be careful,” the monarch told Ikpeazu.

He noted that the emergence of Dr. Ikpeazu as Governor of Abia State was a proof that God answered the prayers of Abians, especially the people of Ukwa-Ngwa who have never been Governor and had prayed for it.

“Anybody that will plan evil against you and your government will not succeed. Those who are not happy that you’re Governor will forever remain unhappy unless they repent.

“Continue the good work you’re doing for Abia, do not be deterred, God is with you and He will provide everything you need to govern Abia State,” he added.

Eze Enweremadu, pledged his unalloyed support for the Ikpeazu administration, while urging him to ensure that he leaves a mark that would remain eternal as governor of the state.

Eze Enweremadu expressed delight over the visit by the Governor to his Palace but decried the belief that Igbos are a people without kings or leadership.

He stressed that it was the enemies of Ndigbo who planted such erroneous belief, which he said the Igbos themselves appeared to have accepted to be true. He however, regretted that even though Ndigbo are a people with organised leadership and kings, the people seem to lack recognition and respect for their kings and leadership.

Ikpeazu, who was visiting the Palace of Ezeukwu for the first time since he became Governor over a year ago, said he was at the Palace to appreciate the monarch for his support and prayers during the campaigns.

He said the advice and support of the monarch helped him to pull through the trying times, especially when his opponent dragged him before the election tribunals. The governor also appealed for more of his support and prayers as he continues to lead the people and promised not to fail the Ukwa-Ngwa people, Abians and Nigeria at large.

•Photo shows Governor Ikpeazu.