(DDM) – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate in the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election, Femi Dexter Akin-Alamu, has lamented widespread vote-buying by rival politicians during the Saturday polls.
DDM gathered that the ADC flagbearer made the disclosure shortly after casting his ballot at Ward 11, Polling Unit 38, University of Ibadan, where he spoke to journalists about disturbing reports.
According to Akin-Alamu, several accounts indicated that voters were being enticed with cash and material inducements in exchange for their support.
He warned that such practices severely undermine the credibility of the electoral process and erode the values of democracy.
The candidate emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy cannot thrive if political leaders continue to normalize corrupt electoral practices.
He commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the early arrival of voting materials and for ensuring smooth operations across polling units.
Akin-Alamu, however, expressed disappointment at the poor voter turnout, noting that it weakens the representative power of elections.
Reports from DDM’s correspondents in Ibadan confirmed that most polling stations recorded low voter presence despite INEC officials arriving as early as 7:30 a.m.
At Bodija Ward 10, Unit 26, and Ward 5, Unit 19, INEC officers were already setting up before 8:30 a.m., but only a handful of voters showed up to participate.
INEC official Omolara Gbamigbade told reporters that her team was fully prepared for accreditation and voting, with voters’ lists pasted on the wall, but turnout was below expectations.
At Ward 10, Unit 27, Bodija Police Station, the first voter, Miss Oluwaseun Omisakin, arrived at 9:07 a.m. and completed her voting within five minutes.
Omisakin praised INEC staff for handling the process efficiently, particularly their quick resolution of a minor BVAS glitch.
Party agents from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) were also observed at several units, ensuring that election protocols were being followed.
Despite this, allegations of cash inducement dominated the atmosphere as political observers raised concerns about open vote trading.
Security personnel deployed by the Oyo State Police Command maintained presence at the polling stations and warned against voter inducement.
The police had earlier banned campaigning, political symbols, and the sale of alcohol near voting centres to maintain peace.
The by-election became necessary following the death of Hon. Olajide Akinremi, the APC representative of Ibadan North Federal Constituency, who passed away on July 10, 2024.
For residents, the low turnout and allegations of vote-buying cast doubts on the fairness of the election outcome.
Analysts say the incident further highlights Nigeria’s recurring electoral challenges and the urgent need for reforms that will strengthen voter confidence and accountability.
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