As Anambra State prepares for its crucial November 8 governorship election, political attention focuses on George Moghalu, the seasoned administrator and politician carrying the Labour Party banner. The former APC stalwart has emerged as a significant contender in what promises to be a transformative political contest for the southeastern state.
From Business Administration to Political Leadership
George Moghalu's professional foundation was built at the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he studied Business Administration. Before entering the political arena, he established himself in the private sector as both a businessman and administrator, developing a reputation for discipline and operational efficiency that would later define his public service career.
His administrative capabilities were further demonstrated during his tenure as Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), where he spearheaded operations aimed at revolutionizing Nigeria's inland water transport system. During this period, Moghalu implemented reforms that emphasized accountability and modernization, later reflecting that "my experience in public service taught me that leadership is about service, not self-interest."
Political Transition and Labour Party Ascent
Moghalu's political journey took a significant turn in 2024 when he resigned from the All Progressives Congress, where he had served as National Auditor and was considered a founding member. His defection to the Labour Party marked what he described as a strategic shift toward "a people-centred platform," stating that "the Labour Party represents the values of fairness and inclusion that Nigerians are yearning for."
This political transition culminated in his decisive victory during the Labour Party's primary election held at Finotel Hotel in Awka, where he secured 575 delegate votes to emerge as the party's standard bearer. Political analysts view his candidacy as a strategic move to strengthen the Labour Party's influence throughout the South East region.
Campaign Vision and Political Endorsements
Moghalu has partnered with retired educationist Ifeoma Veronica Okaro, former chairperson of the Post Primary Schools Service Commission, as his running mate. Together, they have built their campaign around three central pillars: transparency in governance, youth empowerment programs, and comprehensive infrastructural renewal across all 21 local government areas in Anambra State.
Their campaign operates under the theme "Restoring Trust and Good Governance," with Moghalu repeatedly pledging to run an inclusive government that rebuilds public confidence in leadership. "We will restore trust in governance and make Anambra a model of development and accountability," he assured party supporters during a campaign event in Awka.
The campaign received significant momentum during its flag-off ceremony, which attracted national Labour Party leaders and former presidential candidate Peter Obi. The event drew massive support from party faithful, with many political observers noting that Moghalu's candidacy could substantially reshape Anambra's political landscape ahead of the November polls.
