Ahead of next Saturday’s gubernatorial election in Anambra State, the Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, has called on traders across the state to unite in rescuing the state’s economy from collapse.

He described the present situation as a critical moment that demands honest, transparent and visionary leadership.

Speaking during an interactive session with traders at the All Saints Cathedral Hall, Onitsha, Moghalu decried the unbearable tax regime, rising insecurity, and neglect of markets by the current administration.

He commended the resilience of traders and assured them that his government would restore dignity and prosperity to commerce in the state.

He assured traders and transporters that all will be well again once he is elected, promising to modernise markets, stop the exploitation of transport workers, and ensure transparency in all government dealings.

“My administration will end the imposition of market leaders and allow traders to freely choose and elect their representatives without government interference. If Soludo returns, he will not come with Aka Ọdọ again — this time he will come with a hammer,” he warned.

Accompanied by his running mate, Mrs. Ifeoma Okaro, Moghalu reaffirmed his commitment to rebuilding Anambra’s economy through transparency, discipline, and innovation.

He emphasised that the market community remains the backbone of Anambra’s economy and will play a decisive role in restoring the state’s lost glory.

Traders at the event had earlier lamented multiple levies, daily extortions by agberos, and the harsh taxes imposed on businesses.

They narrated how motorcycle and tricycle operators, as well as bus drivers were constantly harassed and forced to pay illegal tolls to survive.

According to them, even when they park their keke without working, they were still compelled to pay, describing the situation as wicked, insensitive, and unsustainable.

The traders further complained that despite paying heavily, there has been no development or modernisation of markets, while industries continue to shut down across the state.

The event attracted market leaders, artisans, and business operators, including Jude Umennajiego, Member representing Onitsha South 2 Constituency in the State House of Assembly and Uche Okafor, among other dignitaries.