Obi of Onitsha, Achebe, Laments Hardship in Nigeria — Says 2027 Political Alliances Driven by Selfish Gains

The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe

The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe (Agbogidi), has expressed deep concern over the worsening poverty and hardship in Nigeria, describing the situation as “very dire.”

In a speech delivered during the 24th Ofala Festival at Ime-Obi, Onitsha, on Friday, Agbogidi decried the ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, stating that they are not in the interest of the masses but rather serve the selfish ambitions of political gladiators.

He also lamented the persistent insecurity ravaging various parts of the country and called on political leaders to intensify efforts to curb the escalating violence.

This year’s Ofala Festival was themed Njikọ na Ntachi meaning Unity and Perseverance.

Achebe explained that the theme was inspired by the prevailing economic hardship in the country and emphasized the importance of empathy, determination, and collective action in overcoming these difficult times.

“According to the latest World Bank development update on Nigeria, the poverty rate has increased from 40 percent in 2018 to 60 percent in 2023 — rising from 79 million to 104 million people now classified as poor,”

“The reality on the ground is very dire, especially regarding access to basic essentials such as food, healthcare, transportation, and housing.

“The situation is further compounded by unrelenting violence across many parts of the country, which has had a devastating impact on the agricultural sector.”Achebe said.

While acknowledging the federal government’s ongoing macroeconomic stabilization measures, Achebe urged authorities to provide urgent relief for the most vulnerable Nigerians.

He stressed that such palliatives must be effectively implemented to reach the intended beneficiaries without being undermined by bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Turning to the political landscape, Achebe criticized the self-serving nature of emerging political alliances in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

“The attention of the political class has now been completely diverted to the 2027 general elections. New alliances are being forged, not in the interest of the people, but for self-preservation and the material gain of those involved,” he noted.

On insecurity, the Obi expressed grave concern about the increasing violence, particularly in the South-East geopolitical zone.

He welcomed the recent conviction of Simon Ekpa in Finland, expressing hope that it would lead to a reduction in the wave of kidnappings and killings in the region.

“The scourge of violence and kidnapping in the South East continues to mutate in various forms.“We pray that the recent conviction of Simon Ekpa in Finland will contribute to the reduction of violent crimes in the region.”he added.

Achebe also cited a recent intelligence report estimating that the South East has lost approximately ₦7.6 trillion over the past four years due to disruptions associated with violent activities since 2021.

He called on Ndigbo to take this moment as one for deep reflection, warning that both Nigeria and the South-East risk being left behind by the rest of the world due to the deliberate actions of a few individuals perpetuating violence.