Paul Nwosu
In a riveting interview with Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television, Chief George Moghalu, a seasoned politician and former National Auditor of the All Progressives Congress (APC), opened up about his decision to leave the APC and pursue his ambition to govern Anambra State under the Labour Party (LP).
Moghalu, who played a pivotal role in forming the APC, candidly shared insights into his political journey, the state of governance in Anambra, and his plans to reshape the state’s future.
When asked about his defection from the APC, Moghalu emphasized that it was a personal decision driven by consultations with his political associates and family. “Two factors are critical in politics: the person and the platform,” he explained. While Moghalu acknowledged his deep involvement in the formation of the APC, he admitted that the party had deviated from its founding principles, particularly in areas like internal democracy.
Recalling his experience during the 2021 APC governorship primaries, Moghalu expressed disappointment in the lack of fairness and transparency. “We were told elections would take place, but in the middle of the night, a candidate was declared without any voting,” he said, citing it as a pivotal moment in his disillusionment with the party.
Moghalu’s move to the Labour Party in October 2024 was not without controversy. He clarified that his decision was not a reaction to internal conflicts but a strategic step to achieving his ambition. “Labour Party offers a viable platform to connect with the people of Anambra,” he noted. Declaring himself an “obedient” (a term associated with Labour Party supporters), Moghalu highlighted his alignment with the party’s vision and his readiness to contest for the governorship.
Moghalu did not hold back in his assessment of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration. “Security in Anambra is at its worst,” he stated, citing numerous cases of kidnappings, killings, and unrest. He argued that the state’s economic and infrastructural progress has been undermined by insecurity, which he described as a fundamental barrier to investment and development.
“Unless we address insecurity, every effort to grow the economy is futile,” he warned. While acknowledging some of Soludo’s efforts, Moghalu compared them to “lighting a candle in thick darkness,” insisting that much more needs to be done.
Moghalu’s aspiration to govern Anambra is rooted in a desire to “change the narrative.” He envisions a state where leadership taps into its vast agricultural and economic potential, emphasizing that every state in Nigeria has the capacity to be economically self-sufficient. “Leadership is the missing link,” he said, urging a focus on subnational governance as a driver of national development.
As he prepares for the Labour Party primaries, Moghalu remains optimistic about his chances. “The delegates are Anambra people; they know my history and track record. If they give me the ticket, it will be to God’s glory,” he affirmed.
Chief George Moghalu’s defection and bold critique of the status quo have set the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested governorship race in Anambra. Whether he can secure the Labour Party ticket and deliver on his promises remains to be seen, but his passion and commitment to the state’s progress are undeniable.
Paul Nwosu PhD
E-i-C, AnambraTimes
