Governor Alex Otti has congratulated former military dictator Ibrahim Babangida on his 85th birthday, describing him as the ‘Father of Abia state’.

Mr Otti conveyed the congratulatory message in a statement on Monday by his chief press secretary, Ukoha Njoku-Ukoha, in Umuahia.

The governor said Mr Babangida was a visionary statesman whose administration created Abia from the old Imo on August 27, 1991.

“On behalf of the government and good people of Abia state, I heartily congratulate President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida on attaining this remarkable age of 85.

“We recall with deep appreciation that 35 years ago, under your administration as head of state, Abia state was created. That historic decision gave birth to a state that has continued to make significant contributions to the growth and development of our nation,” he said.

Mr Otti disclosed that the Abia Executive Council formally congratulated Mr Babangida on the milestone during its weekly meeting.

According to him, the council appreciates Mr Babangida’s role in Abia’s creation and thanked God for preserving his life and sustaining his good health.

(NAN)