Obi Of Onitsha, Igwe Achebe, Laments Worsening Poverty, Faults 2027 Political Alliances
BY GLORY UGOBA
The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe (Agbogidi), has expressed deep concern over the worsening hardship and poverty across Nigeria, describing the situation as critical and alarming.
Speaking during the 24th Ofala Festival held on Friday at Ime-Obi, Onitsha, Anambra State, the respected monarch also condemned the ongoing political scheming ahead of the 2027 general elections. He said the emerging political alliances are being driven by selfish motives rather than concern for the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
Igwe Achebe noted the rising insecurity across the country, especially in the South-East, and called on the government to intensify efforts to restore peace and protect lives.
This year’s Ofala Festival, themed “Njikọ na Ntachi” (Unity and Perseverance), reflected the nation’s current economic struggles. The monarch stressed the need for empathy, resilience, and collective determination to overcome the challenges facing Nigerians.
“According to the latest World Bank Development Update, Nigeria’s national poverty rate has risen from 40% in 2018 to 60% in 2023 — translating to an increase from 79 million to 104 million people now living in poverty,” Igwe Achebe said.
He described the living conditions in many parts of the country as “dire,” citing limited access to basic necessities such as food, healthcare, transportation, and housing.
“The situation is further worsened by widespread violence that has crippled the agricultural sector,” he added.
While commending the government’s macroeconomic stabilization efforts, the monarch called for more targeted interventions to cushion the impact on vulnerable Nigerians.
“We urge the government to urgently provide relief measures that directly reach those most in need, bypassing bureaucratic bottlenecks that often derail such efforts,” he advised.
Turning to politics, Igwe Achebe criticized politicians who have shifted focus to the 2027 elections rather than addressing the current national crisis.
“The political class appears preoccupied with 2027. New alliances are being formed not to serve the people, but for personal preservation and material benefit,” he stated.
On insecurity in the South-East, Igwe Achebe expressed hope that the recent conviction of Simon Ekpa in Finland would help reduce violence and kidnappings in the region.
“We pray that the legal actions against Simon Ekpa will help curb the violence that has devastated our communities,” he said.
He referenced an intelligence report showing that the South-East has suffered economic losses estimated at ₦7.6 trillion since 2021 due to insecurity and violent disruptions.
The Obi of Onitsha urged Ndigbo and Nigerians in general to reflect on the damage caused by a few individuals and to work collectively toward peace, unity, and national progress.
