The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating well-being of Nigerians, attributing it to the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He also raised alarm over the escalating insecurity and economic hardship gripping the nation.
Speaking during the 2024 Ofala Festival in Onitsha on Friday, which had the theme *‘Courage, Perseverance, Self-Reliance,’* the revered monarch urged Nigerians to remain resilient in the face of growing challenges.
“The well-being of the people has declined more steeply in the last 12 months, leading to a 10-day national protest in August 2024, tagged #Endbadgovernance,” Achebe noted. He pointed to two major areas of concern—economic instability and insecurity—as having devastating effects on the nation.
Achebe lamented the rising cost of living, widespread business closures, increasing unemployment, and a growing sense of hopelessness, all of which have eroded public trust in the government. He also highlighted how the sharp increase in petrol prices and the persistent depreciation of the naira have compounded the economic woes, despite Tinubu’s belief in his policy direction.
The monarch called on the president to urgently convene a non-partisan national economic and security summit, emphasizing the need for a collective approach to address the nation’s challenges.
In addition, Achebe condemned the ongoing violence in the South-East, particularly the actions of unknown gunmen who continue to terrorize communities through killings, kidnappings, and the destruction of property. He criticized the authorities for not giving adequate attention to the insecurity in the region, which has led to widespread fear and economic disruption, including the closure of schools, markets, and public facilities on Mondays.
“Our community faces growing armed criminal activities, and the most pressing issue remains the inadequate funding of our two vigilante teams,” he said, underscoring the urgent need for improved security measures.
