On September 9, 2025, a tragic shooting incident occurred at Onitsha Main Market, Anambra State, involving operatives from the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade. Reports indicate that at least four people, including a pregnant woman, were killed, sparking widespread outrage and calls for accountability. Amidst this, claims emerged that Dr. George Moghalu, the Labour Party (LP) candidate for the November 8, 2025, Anambra gubernatorial election, suspended his campaign in response to the incident.
Claim:
Did the Labour Party candidate for the Anambra gubernatorial election suspend their campaign due to the Onitsha Main Market shooting incident?
Verification:
On September 9, 2025, during an enforcement operation at Emeka Offor Plaza in Onitsha Main Market, OCHA Brigade Operatives, a state agency aimed at maintaining cleanliness and order, reportedly opened fire on traders, resulting in at least four deaths (including a pregnant woman) and several injuries. This led to widespread outrage, market closures, and protests. Governor Chukwuma Soludo responded by ordering the arrest and prosecution of the involved operatives and initiating an investigation.
On September 10, 2025, Dr. George Moghalu, the LP gubernatorial candidate for the November 8, 2025, election, announced the suspension of his campaign for one week as a gesture of respect and solidarity. He visited the market to console affected families and traders, condemned the incident as “barbaric and unacceptable,” and committed to paying medical bills for hospitalised victims. Moghalu urged calm and framed the upcoming election as an opportunity for change in governance and safety.
Verdict: TRUE
The CDD War Room can confirm that Moghalu has suspended his campaign, as verified by multiple independent news reports and his official statements.
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