As hunger and violence tighten their grip on millions of Nigerians, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, has delivered a sharp rebuke to Nigeria’s political class, warning them to stop prioritising 2027 elections over the real suffering on the streets.
Speaking at the 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, the 24th since his coronation in 2002, the respected monarch didn’t mince words. He said while politicians are busy forging alliances and jostling for relevance, ordinary Nigerians are grappling with poverty, insecurity, and rising food prices.
“Political attention has shifted to 2027. Nigerians are left to suffer. Governance is being abandoned, and the hardship is real,” he warned.
Nigerians Sinking Deeper in Poverty as Politicians Look Away
Backed by data from the World Bank, Igwe Achebe painted a grim picture of the country’s state. He reminded his audience that Nigeria’s poverty rate has worsened — from 40% in 2018 to 46% in 2023. That’s over 104 million Nigerians officially living below the poverty line.
He also flagged the impact of insecurity on the agricultural sector, warning that if the violence isn’t tackled, food scarcity will get even worse.
“The violence across the country is crippling farming. And without food, there is no stability,” he said.
While acknowledging the Federal Government’s economic reforms, he called on leaders to ensure that palliative measures reach the actual poor – not just party loyalists or ghost beneficiaries.
Turning his gaze inward, the Igwe raised concerns about how South-East economy has bled since 2021 due to sit-at-home protests, violence, and kidnappings. Citing a report by SBM Intelligence, he revealed that the South-East has lost ₦7.6 trillion in just four years.
On the recent conviction of separatist agitator Simon Ekpa in Finland, Achebe said it could be a “turning point” – if leaders and communities seize the opportunity.
“This is the time for sober reflection. We are falling behind because of the actions of a few violent actors,” he cautioned.
As Anambra gears up for its governorship election on November 8, the Obi expressed worry over the poor turnout during INEC’s ongoing voter registration.
He revealed a shocking figure: only 2,482 people had pre-registered online across four South-East states in the first week; excluding Anambra. In contrast, the South-West recorded over 848,000.
“This is alarming. Leaders in the South-East must wake up and mobilise the people,” he urged.
Ofala Festival: Culture Endures, Despite Challenges
Despite the sobering issues, the Ofala Festival retained its rich colours, music, and pageantry. Traditional rulers, cultural groups, and visitors from Nigeria and abroad gathered to celebrate one of the region’s most revered events.
In his closing remarks, the Igwe encouraged Nigerians to stay united and resilient, echoing last year’s festival theme – “Better. Stronger. Together. That message is even more urgent now,” he said.
