The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, has expressed concern over the escalating hunger, poverty, and insecurity in Nigeria. Speaking at the 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, Achebe noted that the country’s political class has shifted its attention to the 2027 general elections, while millions of Nigerians continue to suffer.
According to Achebe, the political focus on the upcoming elections has led to the neglect of governance, which could exacerbate the country’s economic and social crises. He cited the latest World Bank Development Report, which indicates that Nigeria’s poverty rate has risen from 40% in 2018 to 46% in 2023, affecting approximately 104 million people.
The monarch attributed the worsening situation to the high costs of food, transportation, rent, and medication, as well as the impact of insecurity and violence on agricultural production. He emphasized that the federal government’s macroeconomic stabilization measures, although commendable, must be complemented by transparent and corruption-free distribution of palliatives to vulnerable citizens.
Achebe also highlighted the economic toll of insecurity in the South-East region, citing an SBM Intelligence report that estimates the region has lost around N7.6 trillion since 2021 due to disruptions. He called for a reduction in violent crime, expressing hope that the recent conviction of Finland-based separatist agitator Simon Ekpa might contribute to this goal.
As the Anambra off-cycle governorship election approaches, Achebe urged for peace, transparency, and voter participation, lamenting the low turnout in voter registration exercises in the South-East. Despite the challenges facing the country, the 2025 Ofala Festival maintained its traditional splendor, with dignitaries and visitors in attendance. Achebe’s message emphasized the need for Nigerians to remain resilient and united, repeating the theme of his previous address: “Better. Stronger. Together.”
