The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, has urged residents of the South-East to participate actively in the 2027 general elections, warning that low voter turnout could weaken the region’s political influence.
The monarch made the call on Friday during this year’s Ofala Festival at Eze Chima Square in Onitsha, Anambra State.
Held under the theme, “Oga n’Iru, Deliberate Progress,” the festival marks more than 500 years of the Onitsha monarchy.
Achebe urged Ndigbo to overcome what he described as historical apathy towards elections, saying they could not complain about marginalisation while staying away from the electoral process.
“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.
He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure free, fair and credible elections.
The traditional ruler expressed concern over Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, including hunger, unemployment, poor access to healthcare and insecurity.
He urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to prioritise the needs of poor and vulnerable Nigerians, while calling on political parties and candidates to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns.
Achebe also urged traditional rulers, religious institutions, town unions and civil society groups to promote voter participation and public awareness ahead of the elections.
On the festival’s theme, the monarch said “Oga n’Iru, Deliberate Progress” underscored the importance of unity, responsibility and purposeful development.
He called on the people of Onitsha to draw on the resilience of their ancestors, preserve their cultural heritage and work towards the progress of their community.
The monarch also reviewed the work of the Onitsha Advancement Foundation, highlighting the need to assess its achievements after five years and improve its programmes for the benefit of the community.
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