APC’s Ukachukwu Alleges Vote-Buying, Intimidation in Anambra Governorship Election

APC’s Ukachukwu Alleges Vote-Buying, Intimidation in Anambra Governorship Election

All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate Nicholas Ukachukwu has raised alarm over alleged vote-buying and intimidation of party agents during the ongoing 2025 Anambra State governorship election.

Ukachukwu, who cast his vote at Polling Unit 012, Osumenyi Ward 2, described the incidents as a direct threat to Nigeria’s democratic values. “If there’s no seller, there cannot be a buyer,” he said. “Some people have chosen to sell their conscience, which is even worse than those buying votes. When you give up your right for money, you lose your voice as a citizen.”

He further disclosed that one of his party agents was assaulted during the voting exercise, describing it as a form of political bullying. “There have been incidents where people are being beaten up. It may seem acceptable to some today, but power changes hands. God gives power to whomever He chooses,” Ukachukwu added.

Commenting on the situation in Ihiala, a known flashpoint, Ukachukwu noted that no major violence or casualties had been reported so far. “There are always tensions during elections, but for now, it’s largely calm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the election has led to traffic disruptions in Onitsha, where security officials cordoned off the Niger Bridge to facilitate the safe movement of election materials and personnel.

Voting is underway across Anambra’s 21 local government areas, with over 5,700 polling units open. By 8:30 a.m., accreditation and voting had commenced peacefully in locations such as Fegge Community Primary School, Onitsha.

In Aguata Local Government Area, some traders initially opened shops at Nkwo Igboukwu Market, but market leaders later ordered closures to encourage voter participation.

INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, called for strict adherence to electoral guidelines, warning that “no excuses for failure will be accepted.”

Commissioner of Police Abayomi Shogunle assured residents of robust security measures, confirming that threats in high-risk areas like Ihiala had been neutralised.

According to INEC, 2,802,790 registered voters are expected to cast their ballots across 5,718 polling units. The election features 16 candidates from across three senatorial districts, with key contenders including incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo (APGA), Nicholas Ukachukwu (APC), Paul Chukwuma (YPP), George Moghalu (LP), and Jude Ezenwafor (PDP).

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