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Soludo: Fighting Voter Apathy, Not Buying Votes — Aide

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Mr. Christian Aburime, the Chief Press Secretary to Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has absolved the governor from allegations of vote buying, saying that the governor was merely “fighting voter apathy”.

Mr. Aburime made the remarks in an essay he made available to Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.

He dismissed the claims as “not only baseless but also a significant misrepresentation of his intentions and actions”.

According to him, the incentives mentioned by Governor Soludo are entirely legitimate and in line with democratic principles.

Read the full essay below:

Soludo: Fighting Voter Apathy, Not Buying Votes

“Politics is that volatile turf where sentiments, propaganda, and innuendos often take centre stage in an election season.

In this part of the world, the political game gets even more sinister as heightened sensibilities rush to react to every contentious news story to create warped impressions that desperate politicians exploit to denigrate their opponents.

Thus is the perfect example of those making a mountain out of a molehill.

Now, in the lead-up to the Anambra State governorship election on November 8, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has been unfairly attacked with allegations of vote buying via incentivisation.

The claims are not only baseless but also a significant misrepresentation of his intentions and actions.

It is essential to examine the contexts and clarify the true nature of the incentives mentioned by Governor Soludo, which are entirely legitimate and in line with democratic principles.

Christian Aburime, Chief Press Secretary to Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo

Christian Aburime, Chief Press Secretary to Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo

Financial incentives

During a campaign rally in Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area, Governor Soludo spoke about providing financial incentives to his party members.

He stated: “When we were campaigning for the Senate, we knew we were going to win every ward in the South Senatorial Zone, but we still had some incentives.

“Any ward that APGA won received N1m, and we won all the wards in Orumba South.

“We promised each of these wards N1m, and next week, we will redeem it.

“The ward that comes first will get N5m, the second N3m, and the third N2m. That was the deal.

“For November 8, any ward that wins again will receive N1m, while the first three performing wards will get N5m, N2m, and N1m, respectively.”

What a discerning reader would notice in the foregoing statements is the clause “we will redeem it.”

This means that wards may have been won, but the rewards come only later, not before.

Yet, immediately after the Umunze rally, the news went viral that the Governor was engaged in vote-buying.

Impulsive outbursts took over as every opinionated critic kicked with an opinion.

As typical of Nigerian political discourse, misrepresentations and vilifications spiralled out of control.

Soludo clarifies

Surprised, Governor Soludo later clarified his position at an APGA rally in Onitsha North Local Government area.

He emphasized that the incentives promised were not meant to buy votes but to motivate party canvassers to mobilise voters.

He stated: “Don’t sit at home and say Soludo has won. No, we have not won until you have voted. Do you still have your PVC?”

He further explained: “We in the APGA, we stand for one man, one vote, transparent, free and fair election.

“We are going to cooperate with INEC to make sure that this will be the freest, most credible election ever conducted by INEC.”

Now, do these statements sound like someone trying to compromise voters?

Indeed, Governor Soludo likened the incentives to a manufacturer rewarding its marketers for increased sales, a legitimate exercise.

He said, “That is what the prizes of APGA are about! Remember that members of political parties constitute less than 5 percent of voters.

“So, it is members of our political party as canvassers who are being incentivised to mobilise voters to the polling units.

“In politics all over the world, including America, political parties pay canvassers before elections.

“But in our own case, we are not paying them before the election. We say to them that if they win their wards, we will have a prize for them.”

Rewards or inducement?

Definitely, the rewards coming for party canvassers (not voters) after the election cannot qualify as someone inducing voters before the election.

Governor Soludo has repeatedly emphasized his commitment to a free, fair, and transparent election.

He has called for cooperation with the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) to ensure that the election is credible and that every vote counts.

He stated: “We just want people to cast the votes, count the votes, announce the votes and know who the winner will be.”

His call for voters to cast their ballots and for the results to be accurately announced clearly underscores his dedication to democratic principles.

But the real, bigger issue in all of this is voter apathy. One of the key challenges in any election in contemporary Nigeria is voter apathy.

Governor Soludo’s incentives are designed to combat this issue by motivating canvassers to engage with voters and encourage participation.

As he explained: “Instead of paying you upfront, we provide the incentives after the election.

“It’s like commission agents who earn commission on products selling.

“So, if you work hard and convince people to come out to vote, then we have a reward for you after the election.”

Fighting voter apathy

This is necessary due to voter apathy which was a problem in previous elections.

Therefore, the allegations of vote buying against Governor Chukwuma Soludo are unfounded and misleading.

His statements about providing incentives are clear, noble and competition-driven: they are meant to reward the hard work of party canvassers and to combat voter apathy.

These incentives are a legitimate part of campaign strategy anywhere in the world, and are in no way an attempt to bribe voters.

A high-performing governor like Professor Soludo, whose impressive achievements are undeniable and winning awards, doesn’t need to buy votes to win re-election.

With the November 8 election fast approaching, it is crucial to focus on the issues and policies that matter to Ndi Anambra, not shadows chasing.

Governor Soludo’s vision for the state and his dedication to ensuring a credible and transparent electoral process should be recognised and supported, not taken out of context and spun into wild allegations.” [END]

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ADC Delta State Coalition Set for Grand Unveiling in Asaba

DDM News

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(DDM) – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced the final preparations for the official unveiling of its Delta State Coalition Vehicle.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) noted that the historic event is scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the prestigious Delta State Government House Square in Asaba, the state capital.

Hon. Dr. Kenneth C. Gbandi, chairman of the Unveiling Committee, confirmed the date while expressing sincere gratitude to party supporters, grassroots leaders, and donors who have contributed to the coalition’s progress across the state.

He noted that the unwavering commitment of members, whether from hospital beds, marketplaces, or rural communities, reflects the unity and resilience that continue to drive ADC’s movement for credible leadership in Delta State.

The unveiling ceremony is expected to feature national party officers, coalition partners, political stalwarts, and special guests, including Distinguished Senator David Mark, who is set to lead the formal proceedings.

Organisers highlighted that the event marks a pivotal moment in ADC’s strategic plans to strengthen grassroots mobilisation, deepen political awareness, and promote democratic renewal across all local government areas of Delta State.

The Delta State Coalition Vehicle, organisers say, is more than a symbolic asset; it is a mobile hub for community engagement, political education, and advocacy for good governance.

Supporters and well-wishers have been encouraged to attend in large numbers to witness this historic milestone and show solidarity with the party’s vision.

Preparations are reportedly in their final stages, including detailed logistical arrangements, security measures, media coverage coordination, and health protocols to ensure a safe and seamless event.

READ ALSO:  Soludo Approves Consolidated Health Salary Structure For Health Workers

Party leaders expressed optimism that the ceremony will galvanise grassroots support, inspire local leaders, and energise members ahead of upcoming political campaigns and civic engagement activities throughout Delta State.

ADC officials also confirmed plans to use the unveiling as an opportunity to announce future coalition initiatives, partnerships with civil society organisations, and programs aimed at youth empowerment, women participation, and community development.

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Gov Yusuf, Ganduje Meet For First Time After 2023 Elections

DDM News

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(DDM) — Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his predecessor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, have met for the first time since the highly contested 2023 gubernatorial election, marking a significant moment in Kano’s tense political atmosphere.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the two political figures came face-to-face on Tuesday at a public function in Abuja, where they exchanged brief pleasantries amid visible curiosity from attendees.

Their meeting comes months after a prolonged legal battle that saw the Supreme Court uphold Yusuf’s victory, ending a heated political rivalry that defined Kano’s political space in 2023.

Witnesses told DDM that both men maintained composure throughout the encounter, though the brief interaction drew attention from journalists and political observers eager to interpret the symbolism of their reunion.

Political analysts say the meeting could signal the beginning of a cautious reconciliation between the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano, two blocs that have fiercely competed for influence in the state.

Governor Yusuf has repeatedly accused Ganduje’s administration of financial mismanagement and abuse of office, while Ganduje and his allies have described the allegations as politically motivated vendettas.

According to DDM findings, the event where they met was part of a national stakeholders’ gathering, which brought together current and former leaders to discuss governance reforms and intergovernmental collaboration.

Observers suggest that while no formal peace talks were confirmed, the handshake between Yusuf and Ganduje may open channels for dialogue, especially as both leaders face internal political pressures ahead of the 2027 elections.

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All Roads Lead To Delta As ADC Launches Coalition Vehicle

DDM News

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DELTA – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is set to unveil its new Coalition Vehicle in Delta State this weekend.

Delta State, located in the southern region of Nigeria, is a fascinating and culturally rich area known for its diverse ethnic composition, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant economic activities.

It is bordered by Edo State to the north, Anambra State to the east, and the Bight of Benin to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.

This state is renowned for its oil and gas reserves, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s overall revenue.

The capital city, Asaba, serves as the political and administrative hub, while Warri stands out as the commercial nerve center of the state.

Delta State is home to various ethnic groups, including the Urhobo, Isoko, Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Anioma people, each bringing their unique cultural heritage, traditions, and festivals to the vibrant tapestry of the region.

Visitors to Delta State can experience a blend of urban and rural life, enjoy traditional music, art, and delicious cuisine, while also engaging in exciting outdoor activities like exploring the inner riverine areas filled with stunning wildlife and lush greenery.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) notes that the event is expected to draw political leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from across Nigeria.

The launch aims to unite reform-minded leaders, youth movements, and grassroots organizations under one platform for inclusive governance and participatory democracy.

Organizers confirmed that several top national figures, including former governors, party chieftains, and youth leaders, will be present at the official unveiling.

READ ALSO:  2027: Amaechi Won't Get ADC' Presidential Ticket — Wike

The event is being described as a pivotal moment for ADC, signaling the party’s intention to consolidate support ahead of future elections.

The coalition is designed to serve as a people-driven force, providing a political vehicle for collaboration among reformist groups and leaders nationwide.

ADC’s call to action, themed “A–D–C Arise”, has gained traction on social media, trending across multiple platforms in anticipation of the weekend event.

Supporters are encouraged to participate both physically in Delta State and digitally, using hashtags #CoalitionVehicle and #ADCArise to show solidarity.

Political analysts say the unveiling could strengthen the party’s visibility and attract alliances with smaller parties and civil society organizations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

ADC leadership has emphasized that the coalition is not limited to party loyalists but is open to all reform-oriented Nigerians committed to democratic principles.

The party has also highlighted that the event will feature interactive sessions, discussions on governance reforms, and strategies to mobilize youth engagement in politics.

Observers expect that the Delta launch will serve as a blueprint for similar coalition-building exercises in other states, amplifying ADC’s national footprint.

The ADC leadership reiterated that the Coalition Vehicle is a platform for collaboration, dialogue, and actionable political engagement, aiming to address pressing issues affecting Nigerians at the grassroots level.

 

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