The Anambra State governorship election has been marred by serious allegations of vote trading and electoral malpractices, according to African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate John Chuma Nwosu. The politician strongly condemned what he described as widespread vote buying during the electoral process.
Nwosu's Strong Stance Against Electoral Malpractice
Speaking shortly after casting his vote at Oduda Central Primary School in Nnewi-Ichia Ward 2, Mr. Nwosu expressed deep concern about the increasing incidence of vote trading witnessed during the election. He emphasized that such practices represent a serious danger to Nigeria's democratic process and undermine the true will of the people.
The ADC candidate made specific allegations about the distribution of large sums of money at polling units in Nnewi, suggesting these activities were aimed at weakening his electoral chances. Despite these challenges, Nwosu maintained his commitment to running a principled campaign focused on integrity rather than victory at any cost.
"I will rather stand by integrity and lose honourably than buy votes to win," Nwosu declared, highlighting his unwavering commitment to ethical political practices.
APC Chieftain Corroborates Election Irregularities
Chief Charles Ezeani, a senior member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anaocha, supported the claims of electoral misconduct. He reported significant delays in the voting process at his center, Polling Unit 009 Neni Ward 2, where electoral officials and materials arrived late, causing voting to commence around 11:15 am instead of the scheduled time.
Ezeani confirmed the occurrence of vote buying, describing the situation as particularly blatant and unfortunate. He noted that security personnel present at polling units failed to intervene despite the open nature of the illicit activities.
"It was so brazen, unfortunate it happened while the security personnel looked on," Ezeani stated, expressing disappointment at the lack of enforcement action.
Mixed Public Engagement in Awka
Meanwhile, in Awka, the state capital, reports indicated a varied level of public engagement with the electoral process. While some residents actively participated in voting activities, others continued with their regular daily routines. Small markets remained operational in several areas, and groups of men were observed playing football at street corners, suggesting that not all citizens were focused on the election.
The atmosphere throughout Awka appeared generally calm, with no significant disruptions reported. This blend of civic participation and normal daily activities painted a complex picture of voter engagement in the state capital during the crucial governorship election.
The allegations of vote buying and electoral irregularities have sparked renewed debate about the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process, with many calling for stronger enforcement mechanisms and accountability measures to protect democratic values in Anambra State and across the nation.
