Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo has expressed concern over reports of vote buying in parts of Nnewi South Local Government Area during Saturday’s governorship election in the state.
Soludo made the observation shortly after casting his vote at Polling Unit 002, Ofiyi Square, Umueze, Isuofia Ward 13, Aguata Local Government Area, at about 1:20 p.m.
While commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring a peaceful and orderly exercise, the governor said the overall conduct of the election had been satisfactory across the state.
“I have received numerous calls from across Anambra. The process has been largely peaceful and smooth. Though there were minor glitches in some polling units at Olumbanasa in Anambra West where BVAS did not function as expected, on the average, things are going well,” he stated.
However, the governor decried incidents of vote buying in Nnewi South, where some voters were reportedly offered money to influence their choices at the polls.
“The only concern we have is in one or two areas in Nnewi South where there are reports of massive vote buying. Some voters are being paid as much as ₦15,000,” Soludo said.
He reaffirmed his belief in the credibility of the process and the strength of his party, expressing optimism that the election would reflect the true will of the people.
Soludo also assured voters that anyone already on the queue before the official closing time of 2:30 p.m. would be allowed to cast their vote.
The governor further alleged that a political party might attempt to manipulate results during collation, urging vigilance among party agents and the electorate.
“The only worry is that one political party’s plan is to alter results during collation. They even instructed their agents not to record results properly or upload them on the IReV portal to create room for manipulation. But we are confident in the process and believe our people will protect their votes,” he said.
He commended INEC for the early start of voting and lauded Anambra residents for maintaining peace and order throughout the election.
