The Labour Party governorship candidate in Anambra State, Dr. George Moghalu, has called on traders across the state to unite in rescuing Anambra’s economy from collapse, describing the present situation as a critical moment that demands honest, transparent, and visionary leadership.
Speaking during an interactive session with traders at the All Saints Cathedral Hall, Onitsha, Dr. Moghalu decried the unbearable tax regime, rising insecurity, and neglect of markets by the current administration. He commended the resilience of Anambra traders and assured them that his government would restore dignity and prosperity to commerce in the state.
Traders at the event lamented bitterly over the multiple levies, daily extortions by agberos, and the harsh taxes imposed on businesses.
They narrated how Keke and Okada riders, as well as bus drivers, are constantly harassed and forced to pay illegal tolls to survive. Some lamented that even when they park their Keke without working, they are still compelled to pay, describing the situation as wicked, insensitive, and unsustainable. The traders further complained that despite paying heavily, there has been no development or modernization of markets, while industries continue to shut down across the state.
In his response, Dr. Moghalu expressed deep concern over their plight and vowed to end what he called the “infamous Aka Ọdọ system” that uses touts to extort citizens under the guise of revenue collection.
He assured traders and transporters that all will be well again once he is elected, promising to modernize markets, stop the exploitation of transport workers, and ensure transparency in all government dealings. He further declared that his administration will end the imposition of market leaders and allow traders to freely choose and elect their representatives without government interference.
He stated emphatically, “If Soludo returns, he will not come with Aka Ọdọ again — this time he will come with a hammer.”
Reflecting on his record as Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Dr. Moghalu reminded the audience that under his leadership, the first commercial barge entered the Onitsha River Port—42 years after its construction. He also constructed the Odekpe Jetty in Ogbaru Local Government Area, among several others across the country, to promote inland water transportation.
He further explained that the Onitsha River Port was concessioned to Universal Elysium Limited (lead investor), in partnership with China National Electrical Engineering Limited (EPC contractor), Port of Antwerp (technical partner), and China Harbor Engineering Company (Nigeria) Ltd (technical partner)—a milestone that repositioned Onitsha as a potential cargo destination and major trade hub in the Southeast.
Accompanied by his running mate, Hon. Mrs. Ifeoma Okaro, Dr. Moghalu reaffirmed his commitment to rebuilding Anambra’s economy through transparency, discipline, and innovation. He emphasized that the market community remains the backbone of Anambra’s economy and will play a decisive role in restoring the state’s lost glory.
The event attracted a large gathering of market leaders, artisans, and business operators, including Hon. Jude Ifeanyi Umennajiego, Member representing Onitsha South 2 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, and Hon. Uche Okafor (Wiper), among other dignitaries.