By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately investigate and take appropriate action against Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, following his recent announcement promising cash rewards to members of his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), for wards won in the forthcoming November 8 governorship election in the state.
The ADC described the governor’s statement as a “clear and open endorsement of vote-buying,” warning that such comments undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process and could set a dangerous precedent if left unchecked.
Speaking through its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said Soludo’s remarks were tantamount to “a public confession of vote-buying,” urging INEC and anti-graft agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the promise.
“Governor Soludo’s statement is not only morally wrong but also a direct violation of the Electoral Act, which prohibits inducement of voters or political stakeholders with money or material benefits,” Abdullahi said.
During an APGA campaign rally in Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area, on Saturday, Governor Soludo reportedly pledged to reward each ward that secures victory for APGA with ₦1 million, while the top three performing wards would receive ₦5 million, ₦2 million, and ₦1 million, respectively.
“When we were campaigning for the Senate, we knew we were going to win every ward in the South Senatorial Zone, but we still had some incentives. Any ward that APGA won received ₦1 million, and we won all the wards in Orumba South.
We promised each of these wards ₦1 million, and next week, we will redeem it.
For November 8, any ward that wins again will receive ₦1 million, while the first three performing wards will get ₦5 million, ₦2 million, and ₦1 million respectively,” Soludo was quoted as saying.
However, political analysts and civil society groups have since expressed concern that the governor’s remarks could be misconstrued as an attempt to influence voters or local party agents with financial inducements, contrary to the provisions of the 2022 Electoral Act.
The ADC further emphasised that political leaders, especially those holding public office, have a duty to uphold democratic values and ensure a level playing field for all contestants.
“Governor Soludo, as the chief executive of the state, should be seen promoting transparency and fairness, not dangling monetary incentives that could compromise the will of the people,” Abdullahi added.