Vote Buying Mars Anambra Gubernatorial Election Amid Low Turnout
The integrity of Anambra State’s governorship election has come under scrutiny as multiple parties and observers report widespread vote buying and voter intimidation across polling units.
Reports of cash-for-votes schemes emerged as voting proceeded throughout the state, where approximately 2.8 million registered voters across 21 local government areas were eligible to participate. The practice has drawn sharp criticism from candidates and election monitors alike.
APC candidate Nicholas Ukachukwu, casting his ballot in Nnewi South, condemned the practice, stating that voters were being offered monetary inducements while party agents faced harassment. “Giving up your vote in exchange for cash is giving up your voice in this election,” he declared.
Incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) acknowledged smooth operations at his polling unit in Isuofia but pointed to attempts by opposition parties to influence voters through financial incentives. He also alleged that one party had predetermined election results, though he expressed confidence in his agents’ vigilance.
The scale of vote buying appears substantial, with multiple parties implicated. Valentine Iluobi, APC publicity secretary, reported “massive vote buying” at his Mbala-Ohafia Polling Unit 001 in Nimo, Njikoka LGA, claiming that while his party abstained, both APGA and LP were actively involved.
African Democratic Congress candidate John Chuma Nwosu revealed that even his own supporters urged him to participate in vote buying, warning of potential losses if he didn’t comply. He stated that he rejected these suggestions on principle.
Election observer Mma Odi confirmed witnessing party agents openly purchasing votes in Nnewi South, describing it as a multi-party phenomenon. Adding to the election’s challenges, significant voter apathy was observed, with young people in some communities choosing recreational activities over voting.
YIAGA Africa’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, attributed the low turnout to insufficient voter education by political parties, emphasizing that campaign rallies alone were inadequate for proper civic engagement.
As the election process continues, security agencies and observers maintain close surveillance while the APC calls for immediate intervention to preserve the election’s credibility and ensure a fair outcome.
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