From Ifeoma Ejiofor
The traditional ruler of Nnewi, Igwe Dr Kenneth Orizu 111 has expressed worry over the spate of insecurity and high cost of living in Nigeria.
The royal father who was speaking during his 97th birthday and 59th year on the throne said that the twin evil has made life and living in the country dreadful.
“The outgoing year has been very bad because of high cost of living and insecurity. The so called sit at home was hijacked by hoodlums and there was massive destruction of innocent lives and public properties.
“Many police stations were destroyed and police operational vehicles were burnt, many security officers were killed and it became a taboo for policemen to wear their uniforms publicly. The unfortunate development resulted in almost total breakdown of law and order.
“The courts could not seat has policemen were not available to provide security for Judges, kidnapping for ransom prevailed as criminals took over the public space unchallenged.” Igwe Orizu noted.
On the 2023 general elections, the prominent Nnewi monarch urged the candidates for all the political parties to embark on issue based campaign and avoid abusive languages which according to him may cause tension.
In his speech at the occasion, the Anambra State Governor, Prof Charles Soludo congratulated the monarch for his leadership qualities not just to Ndi-Nnewi but the state at large.
Gov Soludo noted that the industrial town of Nnewi is like an elephant with huge resources that can build the entire state.
He however expressed dismay over the level of infrastructural decay in the town noting that his administration would address the issue of roads and other factors militating against the town.
“Nigerian and indeed African leaders have at one time or the other visited Nnewi because of her industrial prowess. The situation today has changed. My administration would ensure that the Nnewi’s lost glory is restored.
“I appeal to Ndi-Nnewi to close ranks and work together for the betterment of the town so that Nnewi can once again be called the Japan of Africa as was done in the past.” Gov Soludo asserted.
The presidential candidate for Labour Party (LP) Mr Peter Obi, candidates of different political parties in the 2023 general elections and other dignitaries attended the 2022 Igwe Nnewi’s Ofala.