Obi of Onitsha Faults Politicians for Prioritising 2027 Elections Over Governance

The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, has criticised Nigerian politicians for shifting focus from governance to early political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that the trend is worsening poverty, hunger, and insecurity across the country.

Speaking at the 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Friday, the respected monarch expressed concern that the political class had abandoned governance for personal ambition and alliance-building while millions of Nigerians continue to struggle with rising living costs and economic hardship.

Achebe described the growing neglect of governance as “dangerous,” warning that it could further deepen national instability if left unchecked.

“The attention of the political class has become literally diverted to the 2027 general elections. New alliances are being forged as political fortunes rise and fall. There is a distinct impression that these efforts are largely for self-preservation and material benefit,” the monarch said.

Citing the World Bank’s Development Report on Nigeria, Achebe noted that the country’s poverty rate increased from 40% in 2018 to 46% in 2023, with an estimated 104 million Nigerians now living below the poverty line.

He lamented that insecurity in several regions continues to undermine agricultural productivity and food supply, worsening the economic situation for ordinary citizens.

While commending the Federal Government’s macroeconomic stabilisation measures, the Obi of Onitsha urged transparency and accountability in distributing palliatives to ensure that relief materials reach the most vulnerable citizens without being diverted by corruption or bureaucracy.

Turning to the South-East region, Achebe voiced deep concern over the economic damage caused by insecurity and the sit-at-home crisis, describing the recent conviction of Finland-based separatist Simon Ekpa as a possible “turning point.”

Quoting an SBM Intelligence report titled Four Years of Disruption, the monarch said the South-East economy had lost approximately ₦7.6 trillion since 2021 due to persistent insecurity and forced shutdowns.

“The scourge of violence and kidnapping in the South-East continues to mutate in different forms. We pray that the recent conviction in Finland of Simon Ekpa will contribute to a general reduction of violent crime in the region,” he said.

“This is the moment for deep reflection among Ndigbo. Nigeria and the world are leaving us behind due to the deliberate actions of a few purveyors of violence among us.”

On the upcoming Anambra governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025, Achebe called for peace, transparency, and civic participation. He expressed concern over the low voter registration figures, revealing that only 2,482 persons had pre-registered online across four South-East states—excluding Anambra—compared to 848,359 in the South-West.

“This is alarming and demands urgent mobilisation by our leaders,” the monarch warned.

Despite the prevailing economic and political challenges, the 2025 Ofala Festival, marking Achebe’s 24th celebration since ascending the throne in 2002, was held in grand style, attracting dignitaries, traditional rulers, and visitors from within and outside Nigeria.

Achebe concluded his address with a message of unity and resilience:

“Our theme last year was ‘Better. Stronger. Together.’ It was a call on our people to consolidate on our breakthroughs and galvanise for the challenges ahead. That message remains as relevant today as ever.”