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 across the state.
Igwe Iweka made the call on October 24, at his palace in Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area, shortly after celebrating the 2026 Obiora/New Yam Festival. He addressed environmental and political challenges confronting Anambra State and the nation.
Describing erosion as a serious environmental threat, the monarch disclosed that Obosi had suffered considerable damage, particularly in areas leading towards the River Niger, where homes and lands had been lost.
Recalling his experience as a former community chairman, he said inspection visits to erosion-prone areas around Ogbaru, including Akiliozizor and Atani, revealed the devastating impact of the menace, with some buildings collapsing into the River Niger between visits.
He urged residents to support government efforts by adopting environmentally friendly practices, warning against indiscriminate dumping of refuse into gutters and drainage channels. He also encouraged homeowners to construct catchment pits to control rainwater runoff within their compounds.
The traditional ruler further advocated massive tree planting, expressing concern that trees were being cut down faster than they were being replaced amid rapid development. He warned that clearing vegetation for buildings and interlocked compounds without adequate environmental safeguards could disrupt ecological balance and worsen erosion.
On politics, Igwe Iweka expressed concern over the desperation with which some politicians pursue public office, noting that election periods were sometimes characterised by tension, missing persons and the discovery of mutilated bodies. He questioned the leadership capacity of politicians willing to resort to violence to achieve their ambitions.
“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, insisting that political rivalry should never become a do-or-die affair in which human lives are sacrificed.
Igwe Iweka disclosed that he had written a poem to promote peace, tolerance and respect for human life among politicians ahead of forthcoming elections. He made the appeal while hosting first-class traditional rulers from across the country and prominent political aspirants and candidates from various parties at the festival.
Highlights of the 2026 Obiora/New Yam Festival included the ceremonial cutting of the new yam, feeding of children and other participants, cultural displays and the recognition of distinguished sons and daughters of Obosi. The monarch’s message reinforced the need for environmental responsibility, peaceful political participation and collective efforts to address challenges affecting the community and Anambra State.
Uzo Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
#Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation
#Informationiskey
#Solutionishere
