Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Achebe, decries worsening hardship in Nigeria, criticizes 2027 political alliances

By Sunny A. David, Awka

The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe (Agbogidi), has expressed deep concern over the escalating hardship and poverty across Nigeria, describing the situation as critical and deeply troubling.

Speaking during the 24th Ofala Festival at Ime-Obi, Onitsha, on Friday, the revered Monarch also condemned the ongoing political maneuverings ahead of the 2027 general elections, stating that the emerging alliances are driven by selfish interests rather than the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

Igwe Achebe highlighted the growing insecurity plaguing various parts of the country, particularly the South-East, and urged government authorities to intensify efforts to combat violence and restore peace.

This year’s Ofala Festival, themed “Njikọ na Ntachi”, meaning Unity and Perseverance reflects the current economic struggles in the country. The Monarch emphasized the need for empathy, resilience, and collective determination to overcome these challenges.

“According to the latest World Bank Development Update on Nigeria, the National poverty rate has surged from 40% in 2018 to 60% in 2023 rising from 79 million to 104 million people now living in poverty,” Igwe Achebe stated.

He further lamented the harsh living conditions, adding: “The reality on the ground is dire, especially concerning access to basic necessities such as food, healthcare, transportation, and housing. The situation is further aggravated by widespread violence that severely impacts the agricultural sector.”

While acknowledging the government’s ongoing macroeconomic stabilization efforts, Igwe Achebe called for more targeted interventions to cushion the impact on the most vulnerable.

“We urge the government to urgently provide relief measures and palliatives that will directly reach those most in need, bypassing bureaucratic bottlenecks that often derail such efforts,” he said.

Turning to the political landscape, Igwe Achebe criticized politicians who are already focused on the 2027 elections, accusing them of prioritizing personal gain over National interest.

“The political class appears to have shifted its focus entirely to 2027. New alliances are being formed not in service of the people, but for self-preservation and material benefit,” he observed.

On the issue of insecurity in the South-East, Igwe Achebe expressed hope that the recent conviction of Simon Ekpa in Finland would help reduce incidents of violence and kidnapping in the region.

“The scourge of violence and kidnapping in the South-East continues to evolve in alarming ways. We pray that the recent legal actions against Simon Ekpa will help curb this trend,” he said.

The Monarch also referenced an intelligence report indicating that the region has suffered massive economic losses, with an estimated ₦7.6 trillion lost since 2021 due to disruptions caused by insecurity and violent activities.

He urged the Igbo community and all Nigerians to reflect deeply on the damage inflicted by a few individuals and work collectively toward a peaceful and prosperous future.