The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, has voiced serious concerns about the worsening economic situation and insecurity in Nigeria. Speaking during his 2024 Ofala festival, the monarch lamented the devastating effects these challenges have had on the country, including skyrocketing living costs, widespread business closures, unemployment, and a general loss of trust in the government.
In his address titled *”Courage, Perseverance, Self-reliance”*, Igwe Achebe noted that the past year has seen a steep decline in the well-being of Nigerians, culminating in the August 2024 *End Bad Governance* protests. He criticized the federal government for rejecting vital proposals aimed at revitalizing the nation, including devolution of power, addressing insecurity, reforming agriculture, and curbing bad governance.
The monarch also called on President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to convene a non-partisan national summit to address the country’s economic and security crises. He emphasized the need for collective solutions, especially in light of the ongoing terrorization of the Igbo community by unknown gunmen, which has crippled schools, markets, and public services due to the Monday sit-at-home orders.
