Nigeria is a country where the more you look, the less you see – Fr Onyeachonam
By Uche Eze
A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Eneogu Iranaeus Onyeachonam, has expressed deep concern over the state of Nigeria, describing it as “a country where the more you look, the less you see.” He attributed the nation’s challenges to the influence of powerful cabals within the government.
Fr Onyeachonam made these remarks during a homily over the weekend in Owerre-EzeOrba, Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State. The occasion was the coronation and installation of Mrs. Monica Ogbu (née Eze) as the eldest woman (Onyishi Umuada) of Umube Okara Oshibe in Orba Udulekenyi Kingdom.
The cleric noted that despite Nigeria’s vast economic potential, poor management and neglect of key sectors have continued to hinder development and negatively impact citizens’ welfare.
According to him, “Nigeria is a country with a viable economy which, if properly harnessed, would significantly improve the lives of its citizens. However, the neglect of critical sectors has done more harm than good.”
He traced the emergence of cabals in governance to the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, stating that their continued influence has limited effective leadership.
“What Nigerians witness today are mostly negative developments. This raises concerns about whether leaders are ignoring critical areas that could boost the economy,” he said.
Fr Onyeachonam, who is currently studying at the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome and is home on Easter vacation, also criticized what he described as undue interference by powerful individuals in governance.
“I was not familiar with the concept of cabals until Buhari’s administration. Words like kidnapping and abduction were not as common before they became everyday realities in Nigeria. Although Buhari was the President, cabals wielded significant influence,” he stated.
Explaining further, he likened cabals to roots attached to a tree’s taproot, influencing its direction. “They are individuals around the President who dictate decisions—sometimes positively, but often negatively, to the detriment of citizens. This is why many development projects are either abandoned or left uncompleted,” he added.
The priest urged the Federal Government to address economic challenges by reforming the importation system and reducing congestion at major ports. He also called for the dredging of waterways and the development of additional ports outside Lagos.
“It is important for the government to open up the Calabar and Warri ports and dredge the River Niger at Onitsha to create alternative import routes. The current situation in Lagos, where bad roads and frequent truck accidents cause severe congestion, would improve significantly if these measures are implemented,” he said.
Fr Onyeachonam emphasized that leadership is divinely ordained and requires selfless service. He urged leaders to demonstrate sincerity, honesty, and courage in their responsibilities.
Addressing the newly installed Lolo, Mrs Monica Ogbu, he encouraged her to lead with truth and love. “Be prepared to make sacrifices like the disciples of Christ. You have been chosen by God to serve your people, and this responsibility must be taken seriously. Do not allow yourself to be misled by those around you,” he advised.
In her remarks, Mrs Ogbu expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve and pledged to carry out her duties diligently. She also appealed to the women of Umu-Ube village for their cooperation and support.
She further prayed for peace and unity in Nigeria, urging citizens to avoid actions that could jeopardize the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on behalf of the family, her son, Mr Oliver Ogbu, popularly known as Ayote, thanked God for preserving their mother’s life to witness the occasion. He also expressed appreciation to relatives, in-laws, grandchildren, and well-wishers for their support.
The event was attended by dignitaries from various walks of life, including Rev. Fr. Uchenna Agu, who represented the Parish Priest of St James Catholic Church, Owerre-EzeOrba, as well as Obayi Stan Ekenedilichukwu.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
