Vote buying: APGA, ADC trade N10k, N5k for ballots

DDM News

(DDM) – Reports from Anambra State suggest that the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are engaging in widespread vote-buying during the Onitsha North 1 State Constituency by-election.

The by-election was organized to fill the vacancy created by the death of Hon. Justice Azuka, the constituency’s former representative.

DDM gathered that the contest has become a fierce political battleground as APGA attempts to install its candidate, while the ADC is supporting Mrs. Justina Azuka, widow of the late lawmaker, as her party’s choice to continue her husband’s legacy.

The election, though relatively small in scope, has gained unusual attention.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo is said to be using the exercise to demonstrate APGA’s dominance ahead of the November governorship poll.

On the other hand, ADC is reportedly testing its strength in the state, especially with former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi showing support for Mrs. Azuka.

Sources told DDM that open cash inducement was taking place in polling areas such as Omagba and Osuma wards.

Party agents were said to be handing out cash directly to voters in exchange for ballots.

In Omagba, APGA agents allegedly paid as much as ₦10,000 per voter, while ADC was said to be offering ₦5,000 per voter.

An eyewitness, Mr. Ikechukwu Orji, confirmed the development, noting that while the election remained peaceful, party agents were openly canvassing with money.

He told reporters that the practice was not hidden and had become part of the day’s events.

Another source, who declined to be named, alleged that the money being distributed was sponsored by Soludo and Obi, arguing that the candidates themselves lacked the resources for such expenditure.

DDM reports that vote-buying has remained a recurring issue in Nigerian elections despite repeated warnings from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Analysts believe the practice undermines democracy and weakens the legitimacy of electoral outcomes.

INEC had earlier cautioned political parties against inducement of voters, stressing that offenders would face legal sanctions.

Security operatives were also deployed across the constituency to ensure peace and curb electoral misconduct.

However, the brazen nature of the cash-for-votes activity in Onitsha North raises questions about the effectiveness of enforcement measures.

The outcome of the by-election could set the tone for future contests in Anambra, especially as the state prepares for the governorship election later this year.

Observers say the battle between Soludo’s APGA and Obi-backed ADC may further polarize political loyalties within the state.

For many residents, the unfolding events highlight the struggle between entrenched political structures and emerging movements seeking to redefine power in Anambra politics.