Soludo, You Cannot Lead a People Whose Traditions You Trample Upon.
Why was HRM Igwe Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, conspicuously absent from the political spectacle staged in Awka this afternoon by Governor Charles Soludo?
For an event of such significance in Anambra State, the absence of the Obi of Onitsha, a spiritual figure and the father of our revered traditional institutions, speaks volumes. If Governor Soludo is unconcerned by this glaring omission, then something is fundamentally amiss.
It is worth recalling that during the last Ofala Festival of the Obi of Onitsha — a cultural landmark in the southeast which attracts guest from both far and near — Governor Soludo declined to attend, an act that many interpreted as a reflection of his characteristic arrogance and lingering vendettas. Perhaps, true to form, he also failed to extend an invitation to the Obi for today’s event as he claimed to officially appoint his successor.
Governor Soludo should be reminded of a simple truth: power is transient, and the tides of politics can shift swiftly. His remarks today, at the unveiling of Udogachi — a thinly veiled campaign slogan for his re-election bid which translates to “Sol-udo ga-achị ozo” albeit a mere wish —revealed a troubling disregard for our traditional institutions. Referring to the tenure of the Obi of Onitsha as Chairman of the Anambra Traditional Council as “illegal” and imposing his own dictates upon the institution is an affront not only to Anambra State, but to the cultural and historical heritage of ndi-igbo worldwide.
Such actions reek of a deliberate attempt to undermine and embarrass the Obi of Onitsha. However, Governor Soludo must understand that the people of Anambra are watching closely. In less than ten months, they will have the opportunity to respond to his divisive leadership at the poll.
Igwe Alfred Achebe, CFR, embodies a legacy and stature far beyond the reach of transient political power. In his pursuit of control, Governor Soludo has revealed not strength but a narrow-minded approach to governance. The people of Anambra will ensure that his arrogance is met with accountability when the time is right.
