LP’s Moghalu votes in Anambra election, alleges widespread vote buying

By Ayox Ojo

The Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in the ongoing Anambra State election, George Moghalu on Saturday complained that the electoral process has been marred by widespread vote buying in the state.

Moghalu told journalist after voting that he has been receiving reports of widespread vote buying across the state.

Moghalu, who cast his ballot at Polling Unit 017, Uruagu Ward 1, Nnewi North LGA, told journalists that information available to him indicated that votes are being bough communities across the state with sums ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦15,000.

He however commended the logistics and security deployment for the election.

But he said with the widespread vote buying the election cannot be credible.

“Poverty was weaponised for massive vote buying. If you monetise your process and weaponise poverty, what is free about the election?” Moghalu said, stressing that the practice compromises the democratic process.

Echoing the same same sentiment, the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party Peter Obi after voting at Umudimakasi, Agulu Ward 2, Polling Unit 008 raised concerns about vote buying.

Meanwhile, Dominic Okafor, a lawmaker representing Aguata Federal Constituency commended the electorate and the INEC for the organisation of the election after voting at his Polling Unit 004, Umuechefu Hall, Igboukwu, in Aguata Local Government Area.

The lawmaker told journalist after voting that the electoral process as “well-coordinated, peaceful, and seamless,”.

He praised the punctuality of electoral officials and the smooth operation of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).

“I must commend the INEC Chairman and his team. The officials arrived on time, the BVAS is functioning properly and the process has been seamless so far.

“Voters are conducting themselves peacefully and participation is impressive,” he said.

Okafor urged eligible voters across the state to come out and exercise their civic duty.and ensure their votes count in the election.

In the same vein, Mr. Shedrack Azubuike, Chairman of Orumba South LGA, commended INEC for conducting a peaceful and well-organised election.

Speaking shortly after casting his vote at Umunze Ward III, Azubuike praised INEC officials for their professionalism and efficient handling of electoral materials and personnel.

He also applauded residents for turning out in large numbers to vote and urged them to continue exercising their civic duties responsibly to strengthen democracy in the state.

(NAN)