(DDM) – Video footage shows APGA officials openly distributing cash to voters in Anambra State during the ongoing governorship election.
DDM corespondent Amaechi okoro confirmed that the footage depicts party operatives handing bundles of money directly to voters, with several individuals visibly receiving the cash at polling units.
The video appears to capture the activity in broad daylight, suggesting brazen disregard for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines that strictly prohibit vote-buying.
Observers watching the footage noted that multiple voters accepted the cash, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in affected communities.
This incident follows other disruptions in the Anambra election, including BVAS malfunctions, delays at certain polling units, and logistical challenges reported across the state.
Election monitors and civil society groups expressed alarm at the video, calling for immediate intervention to enforce electoral laws and protect the credibility of the vote.
INEC regulations explicitly classify the distribution of inducements or cash to voters as a criminal offense, punishable by fines or imprisonment, and may lead to disqualification of involved candidates.
Residents who witnessed the distribution described the scene as chaotic, with some voters openly discussing their intention to vote in exchange for cash.
Political analysts warn that such blatant vote-buying undermines democracy and may influence the outcome of the highly contested governorship election.
Civil society organizations have urged security agencies and INEC officials to act swiftly, emphasizing that prompt enforcement is necessary to deter further electoral malpractice.
Local observers also highlighted that, unlike past elections where vote-buying was often covert, the video shows the activity occurring openly, increasing public outrage and scrutiny.
Political commentators note that this level of brazenness could damage the credibility of the electoral process, especially if unchecked by authorities.
Voters and citizens on social media reacted strongly to the footage, with many condemning the act as a direct assault on democracy and civic responsibility.
The ongoing election continues across Anambra State, with attention now focused on whether INEC and law enforcement will take decisive action against the officials captured in the video.