LP's Moghalu Condemns Anambra Building Repainting Directive, Urges Government to Pursue People-Centered Governance

 

Labour Party’s governorship candidate in Anambra State, Chief George Moghalu, has taken a strong stand against a recent directive compelling residents in various towns across the state to repaint their buildings by July 1, 2025. Describing the order as oppressive, inconsiderate, and poorly timed, Moghalu has called for an immediate reversal of the policy, citing its harsh impact on already struggling residents.

The statement, issued by the George Moghalu Campaign Organisation (GMCO) and signed by the campaign’s Director of Media and Publicity, Dr. Ikenna Agu, denounced the mandate which targets residents in Onitsha, Awka, Nkpor, Nnewi, and Ekwulobia. The notice, which threatens sanctions for non-compliance, has drawn widespread criticism for what many see as an aggressive use of state power in the guise of urban beautification.

Rather than viewing the directive as an act of good governance, Moghalu characterized it as a tone-deaf measure by an administration failing in more essential areas. According to him, the focus on cosmetic changes like building repainting stands in stark contrast to the deteriorating conditions of roads, public healthcare systems, and infrastructure across Anambra.

“The people of this state are burdened with inflation, unemployment, and a lack of access to basic services,” the GMCO statement read. “This is not the time to enforce financially demanding policies without any form of support or consideration for the people’s realities.”

Pointing fingers directly at Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration, Moghalu accused the government of prioritizing superficial projects over policies that genuinely uplift the standard of living. The LP candidate argued that governance must begin with empathy, public engagement, and a focus on pressing needs, not the enforcement of beautification projects without adequate consultation or assistance.

His campaign argued that any environmental improvement initiative must be a shared effort, grounded in collaboration rather than coercion. The statement questioned the legitimacy and morality of deploying regulatory threats against property owners without offering the support needed to carry out such tasks.

The controversial directive has also sparked conversation around double standards. Moghalu pointedly asked whether the state government had taken any steps to repaint its own deteriorating public buildings. According to him, before placing obligations on private citizens, the government must demonstrate leadership by setting examples.

“Policies that place undue financial burden on the people, especially when imposed with threats of punishment, represent governance gone astray,” the campaign emphasized. “Beautification should not become a weapon used to punish or suppress already vulnerable communities.”

Moghalu also highlighted what he termed a pattern of punitive governance. He referenced an earlier imposition of a N50 million levy on opposition billboards, arguing that the current administration’s actions increasingly show disregard for democratic engagement and people-centered leadership.

Despite this criticism, the Labour Party candidate reaffirmed his support for clean and organized urban environments. However, he insisted that true urban renewal requires inclusive planning, shared responsibility, and transparency. He emphasized that real development involves more than outward appearances. It must reach into the lives of the people and address core challenges affecting their daily existence.

“It is not about painting walls, but about painting hope,” the campaign asserted. “Policies must uplift, not oppress. A government worth its salt does not operate by command but by collaboration.”

Moghalu concluded by urging the Anambra State Government to withdraw the directive and begin meaningful consultations with traditional rulers, community associations, and other grassroots stakeholders. He believes that only through listening and shared purpose can any lasting improvement in environmental aesthetics be achieved.

As 2025 approaches and political activities gather momentum in Anambra, the Labour Party candidate continues to position himself as an advocate for inclusive, compassionate governance. He reiterated his commitment to building an administration that empowers rather than burdens, and that seeks not to intimidate but to inspire.