Labour Party flag bearer in the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State Dr George Moghalu has vowed to elevate the status of Igbo culture through concrete policy when he takes over the government house in Awka early next year.
Moghalu stated this in London when he joined Ndigbo in Diaspora at the 10th anniversary of the Igbo Festival of Arts and Culture (IFAC), held on Sunday, 13th July 2025, at Stratford Town Hall in London, United Kingdom.
The event, coordinated by Mazi Obi Okoli, brought together Igbo sons and daughters from across Europe to mark a decade of cultural unity and diaspora identity.
At the festival, Dr. Moghalu was visibly moved by the spirited expressions of Igbo tradition. He engaged with community representatives, visited exhibition stands, and even joined the Nnewi Community in a traditional dance parade, earning warm applause from attendees for his deep connection to his roots.
“This festival is a testament to the enduring spirit of our people,” he said. “Even far from home, Ndi Igbo continue to uphold our rich cultural values and strengthen the bonds that unite us.”
Dr. Moghalu’s presence wasn’t merely ceremonial, it underscored his steadfast commitment to elevating Igbo culture through concrete policy action.
Dr. Moghalu, in his manifesto, has enunciated a clear vision for cultural revitalization of the State’s cultural heritage sites , including the the transformation of Ogbunike Caves and Agulu Lake into world-class tourist destinations, construction of a Cultural Village and Arts Theatre in Awka, and integration of heritage education into school curricula across Anambra State. Through the ‘VISIT ANAMBRA’ agenda, he intends to spotlight local festivals, arts, cuisine, and customs for global audiences while building sustainable tourism around these rich traditions.
According to a statement from his media office, the incoming labour party government in Anambra would enhance the living conditions of all.
“As a homegrown leader deeply invested in Igbo identity, Dr. Moghalu believes that channeling creativity, investment, and innovation into cultural initiatives will not only preserve heritage but also unlock economic opportunities.
“Our culture is not just history; it is a living legacy. When nurtured, it becomes our pride and our competitive edge,” he affirmed. The festival concluded with vibrant performances, music, and community presentations, all echoing the candidate’s message: Igbo culture is alive, and its future is worth celebrating”.
Meanwhile the Campaign Organization of Dr. George Moghalu and Mrs. Ifeoma Okaro, has strongly condemned the unlawful arrest and detention of Hon. Charles Nwazojie, popularly known as Summer, the Labour Party Chairman for Njikoka Local Government Area.
Hon. Nwazojie’s only “offence” was encouraging citizens to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and mobilizing support for Dr. George Moghalu ahead of the November 8th 2025 Governorship Election. For fulfilling this basic civic duty, he was arrested, taken to Abagana Police Station, and unjustly detained, reportedly on the orders of operatives associated with the Agunechemba (Udo Ga Chi) security outfit.
“It is important to state clearly that the Labour Party paid the exorbitant sum of ₦50 million to the Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSAA) to meet all campaign publicity requirements. Therefore, there is no legal or moral basis for Hon. Nwazojie’s arrest and detention unless the true motive is to intimidate supporters and silence opposition voices through a state-sponsored outfit” the organization stressed. .
Moghalu observed that the outfit introduced by the administration of Chukwuma Soludo has now been weaponized as an instrument of intimidation and coercion against political opposition ahead of the election.
“This brazen act of political intimidation is not only shameful. It represents a dangerous slide into lawlessness and a calculated assault on democratic principles. At a time when insecurity continues to plague our communities, it is appalling that security agents are being used to target peaceful citizens for exercising their democratic rights.
“We call on the Commissioner of Police to intervene without delay by ordering the immediate and unconditional release of Hon. Charles Nwazojie and to commence a full investigation to ensure that this security outfit is not being converted into a political tool.
“We also urge civil society organizations, traditional rulers, religious leaders, political stakeholders, and the international community to speak out against this creeping tyranny. Silence now will only embolden the forces of repression.
“Freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, and political participation are fundamental rights guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution. No government or security agency has the authority to suppress them.”