By Uzo Ugwunze
The Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, Eze Iweka III of Obosi, has condemned do-or-die politics in Nigeria and called on Ndi Anambra to join hands in tackling the growing erosion menace in the state.
Igwe Iweka made the call on October 24, 2026 at his palace shortly after marking his 2026 Obiora/New Yam Festival at Obosi, Idemili North LGA, Anambra State where he spoke on both environmental and political challenges confronting the state and the nation.
Speaking on erosion, the monarch described it as a serious threat that requires urgent and collective action. He disclosed that Obosi community has suffered greatly from erosion, especially along areas leading towards the River Niger, with homes and lands lost to the menace.
He recalled his experience as community chairman during inspection visits to erosion-prone areas around Ogbaru, including Akiliozizor and Atani, noting that buildings earlier sighted during one visit had collapsed into the River Niger by the next visit. He said the development shows how destructive unchecked erosion can be.
Eze Iweka III urged Ndi Anambra to support government efforts by adopting environmentally friendly practices. He advised against indiscriminate dumping of refuse into gutters and drainage channels and encouraged homeowners to construct catchment pits to control rainwater within their compounds.
He also stressed the need for massive tree planting, warning that trees are being cut down in Anambra faster than they are being replaced due to rapid development. According to him, while clearing vegetation for buildings and interlocking may beautify homes, it destroys the ecological balance and worsens erosion.
On politics, Igwe Iweka expressed concern over the desperation with which some politicians pursue public office, describing it as unfortunate that election periods are often marked by tension, missing persons and discovery of mutilated bodies on roadsides.
Speaking as a royal father, Eze Iweka questioned what kind of leaders those who shed blood to gain power intend to be. “If a man aspiring to lead has the mind to kill one or two of those he wants to lead, what kind of leadership will he offer?” he queried.
Igwe Chidubem Iweka said rivalry among aspirants contesting for the same office should never be a do-or-die affair, adding that he has written a poem to pass the message of peace, tolerance and respect for human life to politicians ahead of forthcoming elections.
Highlights of the event which attracted First class Royal Fathers across the nation and high ranking political aspirants and candidates for various political parties across the South East include ceremonial cutting of the New Yam, feeding of children and others, cultural carnivals and recognition of some illustrious sons and daughters of the land.