Chinedum Elekwachi
Labour Party Governorship Candidate in Anambra state, Chief George Moghalu has condemned recent public notice directing residents Awka, Nkpor, Nnewi, and Ekwulobia to compulsorily repaint their buildings by July 1, 2025 or face sanctions.
A statement signed by Director of Media and Publicity, Dr. Ikenna Agu for George Moghalu Campaign Organisation (GMCO) described the directive as draconian and anti-people.
Moghalu called for immediate suspension of the directive and initiate a genuine dialogue with community leaders, residents, and stakeholders on how best to improve the state’s environmental outlook without weaponizing governance.
Moghalu warned that if not immediately reversed, the directive would be resisted by the people whose lives and livelihoods, are being disrupted by government that had failed to show compassion or competence.
The statement reads, “We find it utterly appalling that a government that has failed woefully in its core responsibilities—such as fixing roads, providing basic healthcare, empowering small businesses, and creating jobs—would rather resort to harassing its already overburdened citizens with unrealistic and anti-poor policies.
“This forced repainting order, coming at a time when Ndi Anambra are groaning under the weight of economic hardship, high inflation, unemployment, and poor infrastructure, is both tone-deaf and tyrannical.
Cosmetic aesthetics rather than governance
“Instead of addressing the more pressing developmental issues ravaging the state, the Soludo-led administration is obsessed with cosmetic aesthetics at the expense of real governance.
“Governance is not about painting walls—it is about painting a better life for the people through sound policies, inclusive development, and responsive leadership.
“A responsible government should support citizens, not suffocate them with needless and financially burdensome demands.
The statement says the attempt to force residents and business owners to repaint their properties or face regulatory action reeks of desperation and tyranny.
“It is especially wicked that the same administration that imposed a N50 million billboard levy on opposition candidates is now turning its wrath on ordinary citizens through environmental extortion.
The statement says that George Moghalu Campaign Organization is not against cleanliness, urban renewal, and environmental improvemen.
“However, these objectives must be pursued with empathy, dialogue, and shared responsibility—not through threats, intimidation, or arbitrary enforcement.
No enabling support
“Where is the enabling support? Where are the grants or incentives to help property owners comply?
“What has the government done to repaint its own dilapidated public buildings across the state?
“This policy, if not immediately reversed, will be resisted by the people whose lives and livelihoods are being disrupted by a government that has failed to show compassion or competence.
“George Moghalu remains committed to building a people-focused administration—one that listens, engages, and lifts the burdens of the masses, not one that amplifies their sufferings with reckless policies.
It calls on the Anambra State Government to immediately suspend this inhumane directive.
“Government should initiate a genuine dialogue with community leaders, residents, and stakeholders on how best to improve our environmental outlook without weaponizing governance.
“A better Anambra is not achieved by painting walls, but by painting hope in the hearts of the people. That is the leadership George Moghalu offers.”
