Peter Obi Decries Vote Buying, Warns Nigerians Against Selling Their Future For N30,000 During Anambra Election [VIDEO]

 

Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over what he described as the worsening state of Nigeria’s democracy following widespread reports of vote buying during the ongoing governorship election in Anambra State. The former governor, who arrived at his polling unit early on Saturday morning, cast his vote at exactly 11:46 a.m. at Polling Unit 019, Umudim Akasi, Agulu Ward 2, in Anaocha Local Government Area of the state.

After exercising his civic duty, Obi interacted with journalists and election observers, offering a candid assessment of Nigeria’s political environment. His mood reflected disappointment rather than celebration, as he lamented the erosion of democratic values in the country. He noted that despite years of electoral reforms and advocacy for transparent governance, vote buying has become an entrenched feature of Nigerian elections, particularly in rural areas.

The former governor emphasized that the act of selling one’s vote for temporary gain has devastating long-term consequences for citizens and the nation. According to him, accepting N30,000 to vote for a candidate is equivalent to trading away critical social services and the promise of better governance. “Someone who is not employed collects N30,000 for his vote, that means you have sold your school, your hospital, your job opportunities and selling away your future,” Obi lamented. He stressed that such practices do not only undermine the electoral process but also entrench poverty and corruption by keeping unqualified leaders in power.

Observers at the polling station noted that the exercise was generally peaceful, with voters turning out in steady numbers under tight security presence. However, reports across various polling units in the state indicated several incidents of cash inducement, with political agents allegedly distributing money to influence voters’ choices. Obi’s statement, therefore, struck a chord as a reflection of growing public frustration over the commercialization of Nigeria’s elections.

While addressing the media, Obi also used the occasion to caution Nigerians against complacency, urging citizens to take ownership of the democratic process and reject the short-term allure of financial inducements. He compared Nigeria’s situation with that of other African nations, expressing disappointment that smaller West African countries have shown more discipline and transparency during their elections. “Other countries, even West African countries that are close to us where I have observed elections, I haven’t seen something like this happening. This must stop,” he said.

The former governor reiterated his loyalty to the Labour Party and declared his support for its governorship candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, whom he described as a competent and credible leader. He, however, maintained that his concern went beyond party interests, stressing that Nigeria’s democracy must transcend partisan boundaries if it is to succeed. “I’m not on the ballot, but I’m a member of Labour Party and I support my candidate, Dr. George Moghalu. All the people contesting are my friends and I wish them well,” Obi added.

His remarks have since generated mixed reactions across political and social media circles. Supporters of the Labour Party commended Obi’s consistent advocacy for good governance and transparency, describing him as one of the few political figures still championing moral leadership. Critics, however, argue that lamentations are no longer enough, insisting that opposition parties must take stronger collective actions to dismantle the vote-buying networks that have become embedded in Nigeria’s electoral culture.

Analysts say Obi’s statement underscores a growing disillusionment among Nigerians about the direction of their democracy. Many citizens believe that vote buying, political intimidation, and weak institutions have eroded trust in the electoral process, creating an environment where genuine leadership is sacrificed for monetary gain. The situation, they argue, presents a moral test for Nigeria’s electorate, especially in regions like Anambra, which has long been considered one of the more politically conscious states in the country.

Despite his evident disappointment, Obi’s tone remained hopeful. He called on voters to rediscover their civic responsibility and uphold the sanctity of the ballot. According to him, only citizens can restore credibility to Nigeria’s democracy by rejecting corruption and demanding accountability from those in power. His visit to Agulu also symbolized his enduring connection to his community, as residents gathered to greet and interact with him even after the voting process.

As the election progresses, observers are watching closely to see how the concerns raised by Peter Obi and other political stakeholders will influence public behavior and the eventual outcome. The former governor’s words may serve as a reminder that democracy thrives only when citizens choose integrity over inducement, and the ballot remains a tool of conscience rather than commerce.