Category: Politics

The Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in the Anambra election, Dr. George Moghalu, has rejected the result of the November 8, 2025 poll in which incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) was declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking to journalists in his Nnewi office on Sunday, less than six hours after the official declaration of results, Dr. Moghalu said he was dissatisfied with the conduct of the election and alleged that several irregularities occurred during the process.

He claimed that the exercise was marred by what he described as widespread vote buying and reports of underage voting in some areas.

“The November 8, 2025 governorship election in Anambra State, in my view, fell short of expectations. I hereby reject it in its entirety,” he said. “I have contested in previous elections, but this one was different. The level of vote buying was alarming.”

Dr. Moghalu further alleged that minors were seen in possession of voter cards and that some were allowed to vote.

“Children who were not supposed to be carrying voter cards were openly seen with them and allowed to vote,” he claimed. “These are issues that raise questions about the integrity of the process.”

He also said he received reports from his team that in some polling units the LP name appeared on the ballot paper without the party’s logo, making it difficult for voters to identify the party’s position on the ballot.

Moghalu stressed that he would make a more detailed statement after receiving a comprehensive report from his agents across the state.

“Once I get the full report of the election, we will analyse it and then determine our next course of action. But one thing is clear: I reject the result,” he said.

Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr John Chuma Nwosu, has reacted to the return of incumbent Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo as the winner of yesterday’s gubernatorial poll in Anambra State, describing it as a win bought with cash.

He described the election as a national embarrassment, noting that in almost every polling unit, voters were openly induced with cash ranging from ₦3,000 to ₦20,000, turning the entire process into a marketplace rather than a democratic exercise.

Refusing to talk about possible litigation to interrogate his allegations of electoral malpractice during the election, Nwosu declared: “True victory is judged not by the outcome, but by the integrity of the process.”

He contended that an election riddled with corruption, manipulation, and vote trading cannot and will never represent the voice of the people, stressing that a shambolic election confers a shambolic mandate.

In his official reaction, Nwosu, declared: “I, John Chuma Nwosu (JCN), the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), hereby categorically reject the outcome of the just-concluded gubernatorial election in Anambra State.

“What took place yesterday was a ruse and total subversion of the people’s will, marred by massive vote buying and shameless financial inducement at polling units across the state. By every account, the people have not spoken.”

While maintaining that Anambra deserves better, the ADC flagbearer noted that building the state remains a collective action, adding: “Our mission has never been about winning at all costs. It was about redefining governance and building a new Anambra anchored on values, transparency, elimination of corruption, and a secure state driven by the innovative use of technology.

“This struggle continues. We will not surrender. We will not be silent. Our movement will keep pressing until the people of Anambra can freely choose their leaders without fear or inducement.”

Nwosu condemned in strong terms the failure of relevant institutions to safeguard the sanctity of the ballot, remarking that when the system fails to uphold fairness, it loses the moral right to declare winners.

He called for an end to what he described as the culture of electoral corruption if the country truly desires a prosperous and just society.

“The conscience of our democracy has been wounded. When votes are bought, the future is sold. What we witnessed was not the expression of choice, but the glaring triumph of desperation and greed over the principles of justice and fairness,” he stated.

The ADC flagbearer commended his supporters including, campaign team, party members, and volunteers, stressing that they not only stood firm in the face of intimidation and inducement, but also chose honour over compromise, truth over deceit, and conviction over convenience.

He asserted: “You are the true defenders of democracy.”

The Labour Party’s governorship campaign in Anambra reached a defining moment on Friday, October 31, as its Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, joined the party’s Governorship Candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, at a massive rally in Nnewi.

The event, held at the DCC field, witnessed an extraordinary turnout of supporters who defied the rain to demonstrate their commitment to the Labour Party’s mission of reclaiming Anambra for the people.

In his remarks, Mr. Peter Obi commended the huge crowd and their unwavering spirit, describing the enthusiasm of Ndi Anambra as a powerful statement of the people’s faith in the Labour movement.

“What I have seen here today gives me confidence that victory is certain. Labour is not just a political party; it is a movement built on integrity, accountability, and service. Ndi Anambra have spoken loudly with their presence,” Obi said to thunderous applause.

Addressing the rally, Dr. George Moghalu expressed strong optimism that the Labour Party would record a decisive victory in the November 8 election. He said the mood of the people clearly reflected a yearning for a new direction in leadership.

“Labour will win convincingly. You can feel the pulse of the people—their passion, their readiness for a government that works for everyone. Labour is a people’s movement, not just a political party,” he stated.

Moghalu described the rousing reception he and Obi received in Nnewi markets earlier in the day as “a reflection of the people’s trust and belief in the Labour message.”

Reacting to the intensified campaign activities of the incumbent, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Dr. Moghalu questioned his sudden political restlessness.

“Talk is cheap. Soludo is running up and down because he knows the people have turned against him. I thought he said he wasn’t contesting with anybody—so why the sudden desperation?” Moghalu queried. He, however, maintained that power ultimately belongs to God, saying, “God gives power to whom He pleases, and on Saturday, He will speak through the votes of Ndi Anambra.”

Dr. Moghalu urged Labour Party supporters to remain peaceful, vigilant, and resolute, calling on them to turn out en masse on election day, cast their votes, and protect them until the final count.

…Visits Communities in Onitsha North, Orumba North LGs

Labour Party Governorship Candidate for the November 8 Anambra election, Dr. George Moghalu, has intensified his grassroots campaign in Onitsha North Local Government Area where his gubernatorial ambition received yet another massive support from stakeholders, party faithful, and the general public from the council area.

Addressing enthusiastic members of the public strongly desirous of change of narrative in the State, Dr. Moghalu decried the level of over-taxation, insecurity and infrastructural decay in Onitsha, stressing that his administration would confront the menace head-on, end the use of aka-odo and all forms of archaic methods of law enforcement and tax collection.

Dr. Moghalu stated that under his leadership the elderly above 70 years would be entitled to monthly allowances, while those under 65 years would have access to free medical care. Children will benefit from free qualitative education as well as scholarships for high-performing students through the introduction of a State Scholarship Board.

The LP guber candidate further revealed that Onitsha will take its rightful place of pride in terms of organization, cleanliness, and aesthetics.

“We will not enforce taxes with pestle-wielding men. We won’t use security agents to intimidate or suppress anyone. Instead, we will institutionalize agriculture, empower youths through skills training, and revolutionize education in Anambra,” Moghalu declared.

Highlighting the essence of his town-to-town campaign, Dr. Moghalu explained that it was designed for direct interaction with the people, to better understand their needs and aspirations.

The Labour Party governorship candidate charged the people to reject inducements and defend their mandate with dignity, reminding them of the importance of voting for the Labour Party, saying that such a mandate would also strengthen the presidential aspiration of the National Leader of the party; H.E. Mr. Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

He urged them to draw inspiration from the remarkable transformation of Abia State under Governor Alex Otti, promising to replicate similar reforms in Anambra.

Speaking in their various remarks, Hon. Idu Emeka; Member representing Onitsha North and South Federal Constituency as well as Honourables Fredrick Chigozie Ezenwa and Jude Umennajiego, representing Onitsha South Constituencies 1 & 2 declared their full support for George Moghalu’s governorship bid, saying that Moghalu has the required experience, exposure and compassion which the State urgently needs now.

Other chieftains of the party who spoke glowingly at the event described Dr. Moghalu as a focused gentleman and a great achiever who embodies transparency needed to reposition Anambra to its lost glory and enthrone good governance.

MOGHALU TAKES CAMPAIGN TO OKO, NANKA, UFUMA AND AJALLI IN ORUMBA NORTH LGA

Continuing his statewide grassroots engagement, Moghalu took his campaign train to Oko, Nanka, Ufuma, and Ajalli in Orumba North Local Government Area. The visit drew massive turnouts as leaders, traders, artisans, students, and community stakeholders gathered to interact with him on the future of Anambra.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Moghalu assured the people that his administration will tackle the common challenges facing the four communities, which include poor road infrastructure, erosion menace, youth unemployment, inadequate healthcare and educational facilities, and multiple taxation. He said that communities in Orumba North have remained resilient despite years of neglect and deserve a government that listens, plans, and delivers.

He promised that under his leadership, education will be free and compulsory from primary to secondary school, while brilliant and intelligent children will enjoy state-sponsored scholarships to further their studies within and outside the country. In the area of healthcare, he pledged that citizens aged 65 years and above will enjoy free medical care, while those from 70 years and above will receive a monthly allowance as a form of social support from the state government.

On security, Dr. Moghalu assured that within the first three months of his administration, insecurity in Anambra will be brought under control, stressing that the era of fear and lawlessness will end. He declared that ‘ndi Aka odo’ will be banned within one hour after his swearing-in, vowing to restore peace, discipline, and confidence across the state. He further pledged to reduce excessive and multiple taxation to create a friendly environment for traders, artisans, and business owners to thrive.

Dr. Moghalu called on the people of Oko, Nanka, Ufuma, and Ajalli to support and vote massively for the Labour Party, assuring them that a vote for Labour is a vote for good governance, transparency, and development. He urged them to stand firm and united in their resolve to bring real change to Anambra State, saying that the time has come to choose progress over promises and results over rhetoric.

…APC gains two-third majority in House of Reps

The All Progressives Congress (APC) comfortably gained two third majority of the House of Representatives on Thursday with the defection of six members of the opposition.

Five members of the People’s Democratic Party(PDP) from the South East and one member of the Labour Party (LP) from Plateau State defected to the APC at Thursday’s plenary.

Those who defected are Daniel Asama Ado (Plateau); Chidi Mark Obetta (Enugu); Anayo Owuegbu (Enugu); Nnolim Nnaji (Enugu); Denis Agbo (Enugu) and Martins Oke (Enugu).

The defection of the six members brings the number or APC members in the House to 242 members, leaving the PDP with 74 members.

The defection of the six members brings the number of APC members in the House to 242 members, leaving the PDP with 74 members.

In their separate letters read on the floor of the House by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, they all alluded to lingering leadership crisis in the two parties as reasons for their defections.

National Chairman of the APC, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda; Enugu Governor, Peter Mbah and former Minister of Defence, Fedelia Njeze among others witnessed the defection.

Following the announcement, the defectors were ushered to the speaker’s seat, where they were formally received and welcomed into the ruling party amid applause from APC members in the chamber.

The development marks yet another round of defections to the APC in recent weeks, signalling the party’s growing consolidation of power within the National Assembly.

Several lawmakers from the PDP and LP had earlier switched allegiance to the ruling party, citing instability and factionalism in their former political platforms.

Their defection also comes at a time of renewed political realignment across the country, especially in the South-east, where the APC has been intensifying efforts to strengthen its presence and expand its political base ahead of the 2027 general elections. Punch/Nation/Pacesetter

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.

The South East leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has renewed its commitment to rebuilding and repositioning the party in Enugu State, following recent political realignments that reshaped the state’s political terrain.

The resolution was reached during a meeting between members of the South East PDP Special Committee on Enugu Affairs and the Enugu State Working Committee, led by Acting State Chairman, Barr. Steve Oruruo, in Enugu.

The engagement focused on reconciliation, revitalization of structures, and renewed grassroots mobilization across the 17 local government areas.

Chairman of the Special Committee and South East Secretary of the PDP, Chief James Ugwu, described the meeting as “a rallying point for unity and renewed strength.”

“We are not discouraged. This is a time for rebuilding, reconciliation, and strategic engagement,” Ugwu said.

He emphasized that despite recent defections and shifting alliances, the PDP remained a “strong and resilient force” in Enugu politics.
“We are mobilizing from the grassroots, reaching out to stakeholders, and realigning the party to truly reflect the will and aspirations of the people,” he added.

Ugwu expressed optimism that the PDP’s long-standing structures and governance legacy in Enugu would serve as a foundation for its revival.

The Secretary of the Committee and South East Zonal Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Engr. Sir Chigozie Igwe, said the engagement marked “a significant step towards reclaiming the party’s dominance in Enugu.”

He acknowledged the effect of recent political changes but insisted the PDP remained focused on “renewal and resilience.”

“The PDP has been the cornerstone of Enugu’s political stability since 1999, and we are confident that our values, structures, and people-centered ideology will guide us back to victory,” Igwe said.

He admitted that Governor Peter Mbah’s exit from the PDP came as a surprise and left a “sour taste,” but noted that the party remained undeterred in its rebuilding mission.

Acting Chairman of the PDP in Enugu, Barr. Steve Oruruo, commended the zonal leadership for its solidarity and pledged to “restore the people’s trust in the PDP.”

“We will not be distracted by political developments around us. Our focus is on rebuilding confidence and restoring the people’s trust in the PDP,” he said.

“Our party remains the people’s choice, a platform founded on service, accountability, and development. We will work tirelessly to reclaim our mandate and reassert the PDP’s leadership in Enugu State.”

The Special Committee on Enugu Affairs was tasked with driving reconciliation, strengthening structures, and preparing the party for upcoming elections.

According to Igwe, the goal is to “foster unity, bridge internal divides, and rejuvenate the local structures necessary to sustain the PDP’s influence.”

“We are building a movement that transcends individuals — one that represents the collective aspirations of the people of Enugu,” he said.

…says Enugu has regained voice in national politics

The Enugu State Council of Presidents-General has declared total support for Governor Peter Mbah following his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as a masterstroke that has repositioned Enugu State at the heart of national decision-making.

The declaration was made on Thursday in Enugu during a capacity-building workshop organised by the Council for President-Generals across the state, aimed at enhancing their leadership and service delivery at the grassroots level.

Speaking at the event, the President of the Council, Hon. Arinze Ogbodo, commended the governor for his transformational governance model, describing him as a visionary leader committed to delivering accelerated development across the 260 wards of the state.

According to Ogbodo, the Council’s endorsement of Mbah’s decision to join the APC was unanimous and rooted in the collective aspiration of the people to align Enugu State with the centre of power.

“What the governor did recently was a collective decision of the people. He listened to the voices of our people to align the state with the centre of power and decision-making.

“Enugu has regained its voice in national politics, and we are already beginning to feel the positive impact of being part of the ruling party at the federal level. Finally, our voices could now be heard,” he said.

He noted that communities across the state were already witnessing rapid development under the Mbah administration, citing ongoing infrastructure expansion, rural electrification, and the governor’s signature Smart Green Schools and Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres as clear indicators of effective governance.

Ogbodo also urged the government to consider upward review of benefits for community leaders to strengthen their roles as partners in development.

“Our loyalty and support for Governor Mbah remain unwavering. We will continue to sustain peace, complement the government’s efforts in security, and take ownership of projects in our various towns,” he affirmed.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Okey Ogbodo, reiterated the state government’s commitment to empowering town unions as strategic partners in community development.

He explained that the ministry was intensifying its reform agenda through initiatives such as reviewing the town union constitution and operational guidelines, establishing a Community Coordination Department, and introducing regular leadership training for Presidents-General.

“This workshop underscores our shared vision to transform every community in Enugu into a modern, organized development unit aligned with the state government’s overall direction,” the Commissioner stated.

According to him, the role of town unions in mobilizing citizens and communicating government policies at the grassroots cannot be overemphasized.

Participants at the event lauded the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention to strengthen community governance and deepen collaboration between the state and its local institutions.

…Says move reflects collective interest of Ndi Igbo, endorses Mbah for second term

A powerful coalition of non-indigenes residing in Enugu State, under the umbrella of Abia, Anambra, Imo, Delta and Ebonyi Indigenes in Enugu (AAIDE), has declared total support for Governor Peter Mbah’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as a bold and visionary step taken in the collective interest of Ndi Igbo and the overall development of the South East.

The group made this declaration in a communiqué issued at the end of its extensive meeting held over the weekend at Morehouse, Enugu, where the leaders of town unions representing the five states—Abia, Anambra, Imo, Delta and Ebonyi—unanimously resolved to stand firmly behind the governor and his reform-driven administration.

According to the communiqué jointly signed by its Leader, Chief Igwe U. Eke, PRO, Hon. Aduaka Anthony A, Coordinator, Hon. Chidi Udo, and the Secretary, Engr. Onyi Odibe, the group commended the governor for his courage and vision, describing his decision to align with the APC as “a statement of hope in progress, partnership, and purposeful governance.”

They praised Mbah’s transformation of Enugu into a model state, citing his unprecedented strides in infrastructure, security, job creation, and industrial rejuvenation. The group noted that the governor’s policies had reactivated several moribund industries, empowered youths and the middle class, and placed Enugu ahead of its peers in economic development.

“Our support for your movement is informed by the visible change in infrastructural development and the economic renaissance Enugu State has witnessed under your watch,” the communiqué read. “No wonder Enugu is now referred to as the safest and most business-friendly state in Nigeria.”

The non-indigene community also lauded Mbah’s inclusive governance style, which, according to them, has integrated residents from other states into the fabric of Enugu’s political and administrative system.

“From the onset of your administration, you promised total reform in the party structure of the state and pledged to integrate people from other states resident in Enugu. We are happy that you have kept to those promises,” the group added.

In what appears to be a major political endorsement ahead of the 2027 elections, AAIDE declared full support for Mbah’s second-term bid, pledging to mobilize all its members and affiliates across the state to ensure his re-election.

Speaking with journalists after the meeting, a former PDP Chairman of Enugu North Local Government Area, Hon. Ernest Onuoha, described Mbah’s move to the APC as “a collective decision of the people of the state,” stressing that the governor only acted in line with the wishes of Ndi Enugu and the larger Igbo community.

“Governor Mbah’s defection is not a personal move; it is a people’s decision—an act of connecting Enugu to the national grid of opportunities.

“Through this alignment, Enugu will benefit from more federal presence, key appointments, and expanded infrastructure that will accelerate growth,” he added.

He further lauded the governor for his inclusive leadership, noting that the AAIDE community feels at home in Enugu because of Mbah’s fairness in appointments and governance.

“Under Governor Mbah, every resident—indigene or non-indigene—has a sense of belonging. That is why we are fully behind him,” he emphasized.

The group concluded by reaffirming its unflinching loyalty and commitment to the Mbah administration and expressed optimism that his partnership with the APC-led federal government would fast-track Enugu’s development and deepen the state’s integration into national politics.

The political landscape of Enugu State shifted sharply on Thursday as the entire Labour Party structure in Enugu East Local Government Area decamped to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), following Governor Peter Mbah’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Leading the exodus was Chief Afam Joseph Ogbene, popularly known as Akirika Chioku I Na Nike, the Executive Chairman of Umuchigbo Iji Nike and Enugu East Labour Party Chairman. Speaking at a rally in Umuchigbo Iji Nike ward, Ogbene said his decision was inspired by Governor Mbah’s “uncommon and unprecedented developmental strides.”

“When I heard that our amiable and hardworking governor was joining the APC, I became very excited,” Ogbene said. “This is the right time to join forces with him to take Enugu to greater heights. My friends and teeming supporters have also decided to join the APC.”

The rally, which drew a large crowd of supporters, was described by Enugu East Local Government Chairman, Pastor Engr. Beloved-Dan Anike, as “historic.”

“It’s on record that within 48 hours of Governor Mbah’s defection, Enugu East is the only local government hosting the collapse of the Labour Party into the APC,” Anike said.

He lauded Ogbene’s grassroots influence and assured the defectors of full integration. “With his entrance, our work ahead of 2027 will be smoother as we work together to deliver Governor Mbah,” he added.

Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, who represented the governor, welcomed the defectors and emphasized the importance of the South East aligning with the national political mainstream.

“Every Igbo person should join the APC to benefit fully at the national level,” Ogbodo said. “Governor Mbah’s move is a step towards ending the marginalisation of our people.”

He relayed the governor’s goodwill message to the people of Umuchigbo and assured them of inclusive governance under the APC-led administration.

The defecting Labour Party members expressed confidence in their new political home, describing the switch as a new chapter of growth and unity in Enugu East. The development signals another major boost for the APC’s rising momentum across Enugu State.