By Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka
The Obi of Onitsha, Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria, His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Achebe, has called on Nigerians to remain resilient, united, and hopeful in the face of challenges.
At the 2025 Ofala Festival, his 24th since ascending the throne in 2002, the revered monarch emphasised the importance of peace and democratic integrity ahead of Anambra State’s upcoming gubernatorial election.
Addressing thousands of guests and dignitaries who gathered in Onitsha, southeastern Nigeria, for the annual royal festival, Igwe Achebe offered prayers for a peaceful and transparent election, scheduled for November 8.
“This is our 24th Ofala Festival since 2002 when I ascended the throne of Ezechima, our ancestral patriarch,” the monarch said. “Except for the two-year interruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have consistently celebrated this festival in the traditional manner. This year is no exception, and we are immensely grateful to the Most High God for His guidance and protection.”
Turning to the political climate, the traditional ruler noted the intensity of the ongoing campaigns among the five leading political parties in Anambra State.
He called on all stakeholders to uphold democratic values.
“Our fervent prayer is for a peaceful and transparent election to enable the electorate to freely determine their choice in the true spirit of democracy,” he stated.
Addressing security in the Southeast region, the Obi expressed hope that recent international legal actions would help stem the tide.
“We pray that the recent conviction of Simon Ekpa in Finland will contribute to a reduction in violent crime across the region,” he said.
“According to an SBM Intelligence report titled ‘Four Years of Disruption’ published in May 2025, an estimated ₦7.6 trillion has been lost since 2021 due to the ongoing disturbances.”
The monarch described this period as one requiring sober reflection and collective action, particularly among the Igbo people.
“Nigeria and indeed the world are progressing, yet we are at risk of being left behind due to the actions of a few who disrupt peace and development,” he lamented.
Reaffirming the message of unity and progress, Igwe Achebe recalled the theme of last year’s Ofala Festival—“Better. Stronger. Together.”—as still being relevant and urgent today.
“It was a call for our people to build on our gains and prepare for future challenges. That message remains as relevant today as ever,” he said.
The Ofala Festival is an annual celebration of the Obi’s reign and a traditional renewal of kingship rites among the Onitsha people. It draws thousands of attendees, including local residents, members of the diaspora, government officials, and international visitors.
Igwe Achebe, a highly respected monarch and public figure, has used the festival as a platform to promote peace, cultural pride, and development in the Southeast and beyond.
The Ofala Festival, recognized by the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) as a major cultural event, has also received international commendation.
The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has awarded it a certificate of excellence, and an application is currently underway for UNESCO recognition as a world heritage event.