As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, has urged South-East residents to overcome voter apathy and participate actively in the polls, warning that low voter turnout could weaken the region’s representation in national governance.
Achebe made the appeal on Friday at the 2026 Ofala Festival held at Eze Chima Square in Onitsha, Anambra State, stressing that electoral participation is essential for citizens to influence political leadership and decisions affecting the country.
“Still on the national elections, I call on the people of the South-East States to shake off their historical apathy towards elections. We cannot stay away from elections and turn around to complain of marginalisation. In democracy, all votes count. Therefore, we must come out and vote for our candidates,” he said.
The monarch urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure free, fair and credible elections in 2027, noting that transparency and credibility are vital to public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
He also called on political parties and candidates to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns, while urging traditional rulers, religious institutions, town unions and civil society organisations to promote voter education and encourage eligible citizens to participate in the elections.
Addressing the country’s economic challenges, Achebe called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to prioritise the needs of poor and vulnerable Nigerians amid hardship, hunger, unemployment, insecurity and inadequate access to healthcare.
He urged the Federal Government to take measures to ease the hardship associated with its macroeconomic policies and address the impact of economic reforms on households while pursuing national development.
The 2026 Ofala Festival celebrated the cultural heritage of Onitsha, whose monarchy dates back more than 500 years. The occasion also marked Achebe’s 25th Ofala celebration and his 24th year on the throne.
Held under the theme, “Igba Mbo, Iganiru” (Renewal and Progress), the festival featured traditional ceremonies and cultural displays, including the Egwuota dance performed by the Obi and the Ndi Ichie, the traditional chiefs.
Achebe also called for a review of the Onitsha Advancement Foundation’s achievements after five years to strengthen its contribution to community development.
