The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the Anambra election, Mr. Nicholas Ukachukwu, has raised alarm over alleged widespread vote buying in the ongoing poll across the state.
Ukachukwu made the allegation shortly after casting his vote at Polling Unit 012, Umudimala Amaihe Hall, Osumenyi, in Nnewi South Local Government Area on Saturday.
He said reports from various parts of the state indicated cases of electoral malpractice, particularly vote buying, which he described as a major threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
“From what I have been hearing, there have been reports of hitches and security challenges, but largely, there has been vote buying,” Ukachukwu said. “That has become the biggest menace that will witch-hunt this country to a standstill. It will reach a point where leaders who get into power through such means will not be able to deliver.”
According to him, information from party agents and supporters in some polling centres revealed several irregularities, including financial inducement of voters.
He urged security agencies to intensify surveillance and take decisive action against anyone involved in electoral fraud or vote trading.
“One of our agents was beaten up in Utuh, Nnewi South Local Government Area,” he alleged, calling for stronger enforcement of election laws.
Despite the challenges, Ukachukwu expressed optimism that the APC would perform well in the election, adding that the process still had room for positive outcomes.
“I believe God that winning is still possible because the day is still young,” he said.
The APC candidate, however, commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the timely distribution of materials and early commencement of voting, noting that the development reflected an improvement in the electoral process.
