Two observer groups, the Joint Action Council for Democratic Governance (JACODEG) and the Social Alliance for Democratisation in Nigeria (SADEN), have raised concerns about the integrity of the Ondo State governorship election. They allege widespread vote-buying by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with voters being asked to provide photographic evidence of their ballots in exchange for N20,000 to N25,000.
The groups claim that voters are taking pictures of their ballot papers and presenting them as proof to receive payment. This blatant disregard for electoral laws undermines the democratic process. JACODEG’s Executive Director, Dennis Okparaocha, and SADEN’s Coordinator, Justina Nkano, emphasized that the election’s outcome cannot be considered free, fair, or credible unless security agencies intervene.
The observer groups accuse the Nigeria Police of complicity, stating that officers are turning a blind eye to the APC’s corruption of the electoral process. This alleged collusion has cast a shadow on the legitimacy of the election.
JACODEG and SADEN urge INEC, EFCC, and DSS to take immediate action to address the situation. They commend the Department of State Security Officials for arresting politicians involved in vote-buying, such as the individual caught with two Ghana Must Go Bags full of money near St Stephen’s Primary School in Akure.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has the statutory powers to investigate and prosecute electoral malpractices, including vote-buying. The EFCC Act grants the commission authority to enforce provisions related to economic and financial crimes, including those committed during elections.
The ongoing situation in Ondo State highlights the need for vigilance and swift action to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes.
