The Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, Mr. Peter Obi, along with the party’s governorship candidate in the ongoing Anambra State election, George Moghalu, have both cast their votes amid growing concerns over widespread vote buying in the state.
As Anambra residents headed to the polls to elect a new governor, Obi and Moghalu used the opportunity to draw attention to what they described as a worrying trend that threatens the integrity of the election.
Moghalu, who voted at Polling Unit 017, Uruagu Ward 1, Nnewi North LGA, told journalists that vote buying was rampant across many communities, with amounts ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦15,000.
“Poverty was weaponised for massive vote buying. If you monetise your process and weaponise poverty, what is free about the election?” he said, stressing that such practices undermine the democratic process.
Similarly, Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, voted at Umudimakasi, Agulu Ward 2, Polling Unit 008, where he was met by supporters and residents.
He echoed Moghalu’s concerns, highlighting electoral malpractice and the threat posed by vote buying.
Both candidates urged the Independent National Electoral Commission and security agencies to safeguard the election, ensuring it remains free, fair, and credible, without intimidation or exploitation of vulnerable voters.
