Cynthia Ezegwu
The Labour Party’s governorship candidate in Anambra State, Dr. George Moghalu, has alleged incidents of vote buying in the ongoing governorship election, while also expressing concern over low voter turnout.
Moghalu spoke to journalists shortly after casting his vote at Uruagu Ward 1, Nnewi, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a credible and transparent electoral process.
He noted that it was too early to determine whether the election was entirely free and fair. “I didn’t hear issues of glitches, at least for now. As we go along to monitor the process, we’ll confirm,” he said.
Moghalu highlighted that while voter participation appeared improved compared with previous elections, monetisation of the voting process undermines its credibility. “If you monetise a process, you weaponise poverty. What’s free about it?” he said.
READ ALSO: Soludo Blows Whistle on Nnewi South Vote Buying, Claims Victory Already Secured
The Labour Party candidate also expressed concern over voter apathy, attributing it to the public’s loss of confidence in the electoral system. “There’s no doubt there is low voter turnout, and that has been the trend. It’s incumbent on INEC to keep improving the process because voter apathy is a manifestation of the people’s loss of confidence. That’s the only way they can protest,” he said.
He added that his focus was on ensuring a credible process that would strengthen democracy and create a stable environment, rather than on personal political gain.
Voting is ongoing across the state, with 16 candidates from 16 political parties contesting to unseat Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).