The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, has expressed deep concern over the worsening poverty, hunger, and insecurity across Nigeria. Speaking during the 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, the respected monarch lamented that while millions of Nigerians are battling hardship, many politicians have shifted focus to the 2027 general elections instead of addressing the nation’s urgent challenges.
Achebe warned the political class against prioritizing self-interest over governance, stressing that such behavior could deepen the country’s economic and social problems. Citing data from the World Bank Development Report, he noted that Nigeria’s poverty rate had risen from 40% in 2018 to 46% in 2023, meaning over 104 million Nigerians now live below the poverty line. He blamed the situation on rising food prices, transportation costs, rent, and poor access to healthcare—issues made worse by widespread insecurity disrupting farming and rural livelihoods.
The monarch acknowledged that the Federal Government was implementing economic reforms but urged transparency and accountability in the distribution of palliatives, ensuring they reach the people who need them most. He emphasized that corruption and bureaucracy often deny genuine beneficiaries the relief intended to cushion economic hardship.
Achebe also expressed concern over the growing insecurity in the South-East, noting that continuous violence and kidnappings have crippled regional growth. Referring to a report by SBM Intelligence, he revealed that insecurity and sit-at-home disruptions had cost the region an estimated N7.6 trillion since 2021. He, however, expressed hope that the recent conviction of separatist agitator Simon Ekpa in Finland could help restore peace.
As the Anambra off-cycle governorship election approaches, the Obi called for peaceful conduct, transparency, and higher voter participation. He lamented the low turnout during recent voter registration exercises in the South-East, urging leaders to mobilize citizens for political engagement. Despite the challenging times, Achebe encouraged Nigerians to stay united, emphasizing that the nation can overcome its problems through collective effort and renewed focus on good governance.
