The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, has warned politicians against prioritizing 2027 election plans over governance.
He said such neglect worsens poverty, insecurity, and economic hardship across Nigeria.
The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, has voiced concern that political leaders across Nigeria are already focusing on the 2027 general elections instead of tackling widespread hunger, poverty, and insecurity.
Speaking during the 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Friday, the monarch lamented that the rush to form political alliances ahead of the next election was distracting leaders from their responsibilities and worsening the country’s economic and social problems.
Achebe cautioned that neglecting governance for political gain could heighten hardship and instability nationwide. He noted that many Nigerians were suffering as living costs continued to soar despite ongoing economic reforms.
“The political class appears more preoccupied with the 2027 elections, forging new alliances and pursuing self-interest while ordinary citizens struggle under worsening hardship,” he said. “Our poverty rate has climbed from 40 percent in 2018 to 46 percent in 2023, meaning about 104 million Nigerians now live in poverty, according to the World Bank.”
The monarch also highlighted the impact of insecurity on the nation’s agriculture sector, describing the situation as “dire.” While commending the Federal Government’s economic stabilization efforts, he urged authorities to ensure that palliatives and relief packages reach the intended beneficiaries without corruption or bureaucracy.
Turning to the South-East, Achebe expressed concern over the region’s growing insecurity and its heavy economic toll. He described the conviction of Finland-based separatist Simon Ekpa as a potential opportunity to curb violence. Citing an SBM Intelligence report, the Igwe noted that the South-East had lost about ₦7.6 trillion since 2021 due to insecurity and sit-at-home disruptions.
“The wave of violence and kidnappings in the region keeps changing form,” he said. “We hope that the recent conviction of Simon Ekpa will help reduce crime and unrest. This is a time for Ndigbo to reflect deeply, as the actions of a few have held back the progress of many.”
Achebe also raised concern about voter apathy ahead of the November 8 Anambra governorship election. He noted that only 2,482 people had pre-registered online for voter registration across four South-East states, excluding Anambra, compared to 848,359 in the South-West.
“This low level of participation is worrisome and requires urgent mobilization by our leaders,” he said.
Despite his sobering message, the 2025 Ofala Festival maintained its cultural grandeur, attracting dignitaries, traditional rulers, and visitors from across Nigeria and abroad.
Marking his 24th Ofala celebration since ascending the throne in 2002, Achebe encouraged Nigerians to remain resilient and united, recalling last year’s theme: “Better. Stronger. Together.” He said the message remained just as relevant today as the nation faces renewed challenges.
