The Independent National Electoral Commission has dismissed claims of widespread vote-buying during Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra State, insisting that no credible proof has been tendered to support the allegations.
The clarification follows accusations from some candidates, including the All Progressives Grand Alliance flagbearer, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo; Labour Party candidate, George Moghalu; and African Action Congress candidate, Chioma Ifemeludike.
They alleged that voters in some polling units were induced with cash ranging between ₦3,000 and ₦5,000.
However, speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s News at 10 on Saturday night the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Queen Elizabeth Agwu, described the claims as speculative and without factual backing.
“Vote-buying is a serious offence, and anyone making such allegations must provide facts and figures,” Agwu said.
“You cannot go on national television and make sweeping claims without pointing to a particular polling unit or providing proof. If there is evidence, let it be brought forward.”
She explained that no verified reports of vote-buying were received at the commission’s situation room during the election.
“I monitored developments from the situation room throughout the day. There were no confirmed reports of delayed deployment of materials or vote-buying.
“None of our officials or accredited observers, both local and international, reported such incidents,” she stated. “So, for now, these claims remain rumours — and rumours don’t thrive with us.”
On voter turnout, Agwu said it was premature to draw conclusions, noting that assessment would be based on collated figures when the process is completed.
“We observed early voter presence in many polling units. We will be able to speak authoritatively on turnout after collation,” she added.
The REC commended the conduct of the exercise, citing timely deployment of personnel, proper functioning of the BVAS machines, and adequate security arrangements
Meanwhile, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, confirmed the arrest of three individuals suspected of engaging in vote-buying activities during the election.
The suspects, identified as Emeka Ilokasia (Njikoka LGA), Nwachukwu Loretta (Oyi LGA), and Emuka Chuwudi (Dunukofia LGA), were taken into custody and are expected to face prosecution after investigations are concluded.
