Soludo Faces Public Outrage As N1 Million Per Ward Pledge Sparks Vote-Buying Accusations In Anambra

 

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has come under intense criticism following his recent announcement that the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) will reward each ward that secures victory for the party with a cash incentive of N1 million during the forthcoming November 8 governorship election. The pledge, made during a campaign rally in Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area, has ignited a wave of condemnation from opposition parties, civil society groups, and concerned citizens, many of whom view the gesture as a blatant act of inducement capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process.

During the rally, the governor addressed a large crowd of supporters and party members, expressing confidence that APGA would triumph across the state. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to rewarding loyalty and performance at the grassroots level, citing a similar practice during past elections. According to him, the party had previously given monetary rewards to wards that delivered victories during the senatorial elections, and the same would apply in the upcoming contest.

Governor Soludo declared that each ward that secures victory for APGA in the November poll would receive N1 million, while the top three performing wards would be given N5 million, N2 million, and N1 million respectively. His words, however, have sparked fierce debate, with critics interpreting the announcement as an open attempt to influence voters through financial inducement.

The statement has drawn the attention of political opponents who argue that such promises compromise democratic integrity. The National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-East, Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, sharply condemned the move, describing it as a “clear example of vote-buying and abuse of office.” He noted that offering monetary incentives tied to electoral outcomes violates the provisions of the Electoral Act and sets a dangerous precedent for future elections in the state and beyond.

Voices from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) also joined the condemnation. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate Soludo’s public remarks, asserting that the governor’s comments amounted to “a public confession of vote-buying.” Abdullahi maintained that the act runs contrary to the spirit of fair competition and transparency that should define the democratic process.

The Labour Party added its voice to the growing criticism, accusing Soludo of weaponising poverty and attempting to manipulate voters through financial rewards. Party representatives expressed concern that such actions could weaken public trust in the electoral system and entrench corrupt practices that prioritise financial gain over democratic choice. “This is not good for democracy,” a Labour Party spokesperson said, stressing that the party intends to raise the issue formally with INEC during the next stakeholders’ meeting.

Observers and civil society organisations have also weighed in, warning that the governor’s remarks could set a negative tone for the election. Many argue that while political mobilisation and grassroots empowerment are legitimate campaign strategies, tying cash rewards to electoral victories blurs the line between motivation and manipulation. The Nigeria Civil Rights Forum, in a statement released on Sunday, urged security agencies and the electoral commission to scrutinise all campaign practices in the state to prevent violations of the law.

At least 2.8 million registered voters are expected to participate in the Anambra governorship election, which will feature 16 political parties and their candidates competing for the state’s highest office. The contest is already being described as one of the most closely watched polls in recent years, with multiple parties vying to unseat APGA, which has governed Anambra since 2006.

Political analysts suggest that the controversy surrounding Soludo’s cash-for-votes remark could affect his party’s image, especially among undecided voters who are wary of unethical electoral practices. Some analysts believe the backlash might energise opposition parties, providing them with fresh talking points to challenge APGA’s credibility on the campaign trail.

Despite the criticism, supporters of Governor Soludo have defended his comments, arguing that the pledge was not meant as a bribe but as a form of recognition for hardworking party loyalists who contribute to APGA’s success. They insist that the funds would be channelled towards community development and post-election projects, not individual payoffs.

As the November 8 election approaches, the controversy highlights growing tension between political ambition and ethical governance in Anambra State. Whether Soludo’s remarks will translate into electoral gains or backlash remains uncertain, but the unfolding debate has once again exposed the delicate balance between political strategy and public accountability in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.