The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, has expressed deep concern over the escalating insecurity and crime rates in the South East region, particularly in Onitsha.
During the celebration of Ofala on Friday, Achebe delivered a message highlighting the critical state of affairs in the country, emphasizing the political, economic, social, and security challenges faced by Nigeria.
Addressing the situation in the South East, Achebe discussed the aftermath of the last general elections and the complex security situation in the region. He mentioned the presence of kidnappers, political thugs, and state and non-state actors, who are camouflaging themselves as unknown gunmen. Achebe also highlighted the crippling economic impact resulting from the insecurity and the ill-advised sit-at-home protests, which have caused immeasurable loss of lives, properties, and finances for the Igbo people.
While the Ofala celebration is usually a grand event, Achebe explained that this year, it has been scaled back to reflect the prevailing mood of the country and the challenges faced by the community. The hope is that the situation will improve, allowing for a resumption of the festival at its normal scale in the future.
Insecurity in Onitsha
Achebe acknowledged that Onitsha, like other major cities in the country, has also experienced security challenges over the past year. As the centerpiece of a vast urban spread of contiguous communities, it is nearly impossible to shield the city from the overall security situation in the region.
Furthermore, as the primary center of economic activity, Onitsha has become an attractive destination for unemployed and transient youth from rural areas in search of a better life. Consequently, the city faces numerous challenges, including youth unemployment, gangsterism, touting, homelessness, petty and armed robbery, cultism, drug addiction, child prostitution, and rape.
Achebe lamented that even the indigenous community is not immune to the pressures of urbanization. He acknowledged the constant struggle faced by his council to maintain security within the city. While the statutory security agencies primarily adopt a reactive approach towards crime, the Anambra State Vigilante Group (AVG), commanded by the state government, is responsible for security alongside the Onicha Ado Community Vigilante Unit (OCVU), under his command, with 25 and 59 operatives respectively.
The 2023 Ofala celebration showcased vibrant displays by various age grades and titled men within the kingdom.
