The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, has voiced strong concern over what he described as the growing distraction of Nigeria’s political class, accusing leaders of abandoning governance in favour of early political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, the respected monarch lamented the worsening poverty, hunger, and insecurity across the country, noting that these crises have deepened due to the political elite’s focus on self-preservation and power games rather than on delivering solutions.
“The attention of the political class has become literally diverted to the 2027 general elections,” Achebe said.
“There is a distinct impression that these efforts are largely for self-preservation and material benefit.”
He cited World Bank data showing that Nigeria’s poverty rate has risen from 40% in 2018 to 46% in 2023, with over 104 million Nigerians now classified as poor.
He stressed that while economic reforms are ongoing, they have not translated to relief for ordinary citizens.
The monarch added that persistent violence, especially in rural areas, continues to devastate the agricultural sector and threaten national food security.
While acknowledging the Federal Government’s economic reforms, Achebe urged authorities to ensure transparency and fairness in the distribution of palliatives, warning that corruption and inefficiency must not be allowed to derail the process.
Turning to the South-East, the Obi highlighted the enormous economic cost of insecurity, particularly from the sit-at-home orders and violent agitations.
Quoting a report by SBM Intelligence, Achebe revealed that the region had lost approximately ₦7.6 trillion since 2021 due to unrest.
He described the recent conviction of separatist agitator Simon Ekpa in Finland as a potential turning point in the fight against instability in the region.
“This is the moment for deep reflection among Ndigbo,” he said.
“Nigeria and the world are leaving us behind due to the deliberate actions of a few purveyors of violence among us.”
Ahead of the Anambra governorship election scheduled for November 8, Achebe appealed for peaceful, transparent polls and higher voter participation.
He expressed concern over the low turnout in the ongoing voter registration, disclosing that in the first week of the exercise, only 2,482 people registered online across four South-East states (excluding Anambra), compared to over 848,000 in the South-West.
Despite the somber national mood, the 24th Ofala Festival retained its cultural significance, drawing traditional rulers, dignitaries, and guests from across Nigeria and beyond.
Marking his 24th year on the throne since 2002, Igwe Achebe called for resilience and unity among Nigerians.
“Our theme last year was ‘Better. Stronger. Together.’ That message remains as relevant today as ever.”
