Vote-Buying Allegations Cloud Anambra Poll As LP Candidate George Moghalu Decries Rampant Electoral Corruption

 

Tension and outrage are growing in Anambra State following serious allegations of large-scale vote-buying during the ongoing governorship election. The Labour Party’s flag bearer, George Moghalu, has condemned what he describes as a disgraceful and widespread practice that threatens the credibility of the electoral process. Speaking to journalists at his residence in Nnewi North Local Government Area on Saturday, Moghalu lamented that despite the heavy presence of security operatives across polling units, financial inducement of voters has become rampant and visible.

Moghalu, who appeared visibly displeased with the unfolding situation, stated that several credible reports reaching him from various parts of the state confirmed that money was being exchanged for votes. According to him, the disturbing trend is no longer an allegation but a visible reality that undermines the essence of democracy. “The situation is scandalous and very embarrassing,” he said during the media briefing. “Vote-buying is not just speculation anymore; it is happening in a very aggressive manner, just like we saw during the last by-election.”

He expressed deep concern that despite the deployment of a significant number of police officers, soldiers, and other security personnel, no serious action seemed to be taken against those engaging in electoral bribery. Moghalu noted that he had expected the authorities to act decisively to protect the integrity of the ballot, especially given the magnitude of resources committed to securing the exercise. “With the quantity of security personnel that has been brought into Anambra State for this election, one would expect that vote buyers would have been caught and stopped by now,” he remarked.

The Labour Party candidate described the situation as tragic for Nigeria’s democracy, emphasizing that any election marred by monetary influence cannot produce leaders truly chosen by the people. He argued that the recurring issue of vote-buying has become one of the most damaging elements in the country’s political culture. According to him, this illegal act weakens the credibility of electoral institutions, discourages genuine political participation, and compromises the moral foundation of governance.

Moghalu further appealed to security agencies to take immediate action against anyone found engaging in such practices. He insisted that the credibility of the election depended on the fairness and firmness of law enforcement officials on duty. “This is not just about me as a candidate,” he explained. “It is about the future of our state and our democracy. If we continue to allow money to decide who leads us, then we are mortgaging the destiny of our children.”

Observers present at various polling units also reported similar incidents of voters allegedly being offered cash and material gifts in exchange for their support. Several eyewitnesses claimed that political agents were seen discreetly sharing envelopes with voters after they cast their ballots. Some polling units were said to have turned into informal marketplaces, where loyalty to candidates was openly traded for financial benefit. These reports appear to corroborate Moghalu’s concerns about the scale and brazenness of the malpractice.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has repeatedly warned against vote-buying, declaring it a serious electoral offense punishable under Nigerian law. However, enforcement has remained weak, with very few offenders ever prosecuted. Critics argue that until there are consistent arrests and convictions, politicians will continue to use money as a weapon to manipulate voter behavior. Moghalu’s remarks, therefore, reflect a growing frustration among reform-minded politicians who believe the system has become too compromised to deliver true democracy.

Despite the unfolding irregularities, Moghalu maintained an optimistic tone about his chances in the race. He assured his supporters that he had campaigned diligently, followed every legal process, and remained confident that his message of integrity, competence, and service would resonate with the electorate. “I have done everything expected of me according to the rules. I sleep peacefully because I know I ran a clean campaign. I present to the people my experience, both in the public and private sectors, and I ask them to verify who I am,” he stated.

Political analysts view Moghalu’s outcry as a reflection of the systemic challenges facing Nigeria’s electoral landscape, where poverty, desperation, and weak enforcement structures combine to erode civic values. They warn that if immediate reforms are not implemented, elections will continue to be determined not by ideas or leadership quality but by the highest bidder.

As vote counting continues across polling centers, the allegations have drawn significant public attention and calls for urgent investigation. Many civil society groups and election monitors have urged the authorities to take swift measures to ensure that the will of the people is not subverted by the power of money. Whether or not these concerns will lead to concrete action remains to be seen, but Moghalu’s warning has once again reignited the debate about the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.

For now, Anambra voters watch closely, hoping that the final outcome of the election will reflect their true choice rather than the influence of cash inducements. The credibility of this poll, observers say, will depend largely on how swiftly the relevant authorities respond to the serious issues raised by the Labour Party candidate.