The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in the November 8 Anambra election, John Nwosu, has rejected the results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Nwosu described the poll as a “ruse” and a total subversion of the people’s will, alleging widespread vote buying and financial inducement across polling units.
Governor Charles Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) was declared winner with 422,664 votes, defeating Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who scored 99,445 votes. Nwosu trailed with 8,208 votes, according to INEC’s returning officer, Prof. Edoba Omoregie, Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin.
However, Nwosu insisted that “the people of Anambra did not speak.” He claimed the process was hijacked by politicians who bought votes with cash ranging from ₦3,000 to ₦20,000 per voter.
“In almost every polling unit, voters were openly induced with cash. The election turned into a marketplace instead of a democratic contest,” Nwosu said.
He described the exercise as a national embarrassment, warning that Nigeria’s democracy was losing its moral foundation.
“This was a win bought with cash and a loss for democracy,” he stated.
“True victory is measured by the integrity of the process, not just the result.”
Nwosu accused electoral and security institutions of failing to protect the sanctity of the ballot. He said the system “lost the moral right to declare winners” after allowing corruption to dominate the process.
“When votes are bought, the future is sold,” he said.
“What we witnessed was not the people’s choice but the triumph of greed over justice and fairness.”
Despite his loss, Nwosu expressed gratitude to ADC members and campaign supporters, commending them for resisting intimidation and inducement. He vowed to continue advocating for a transparent political culture and a redefined Anambra anchored on values and accountability.
Tinubu Congratulates Soludo
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu congratulated Governor Charles Soludo on his re-election, describing it as “an affirmation of visionary leadership and public confidence.”
In a statement issued Sunday in Abuja, Tinubu said Soludo’s victory was a milestone in Anambra’s political history, making him the third governor to secure a second term.
“Professor Soludo’s re-election reflects his disciplined and knowledge-driven approach to governance,” Tinubu said.
“He has shown that academic principles can drive effective leadership through transparency and prudent management.”
The President also commended INEC, security agencies, and the people of Anambra for conducting a peaceful election.
Tinubu lauded the new INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, for what he described as a credible and transparent process, urging the commission to sustain and improve the standard in future polls.
He urged Soludo to be magnanimous in victory, build bridges across party lines, and continue his partnership with the federal government to deliver development to Anambra.
“Under Soludo, the state continues to live up to its motto the Light of the Nation,” Tinubu said.