Dare Babalola
The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Anambra State, John Nwosu, has rejected the outcome of the recent election, describing it as “shambolic” and marred by corruption and vote-buying.
In a statement he personally signed on Sunday, Nwosu alleged that voters were openly offered cash ranging from ₦3,000 to ₦20,000 to influence their choices, turning the electoral process into a marketplace rather than a democratic exercise.
“A win bought with cash is a loss for democracy. What took place yesterday was a national embarrassment and a direct assault on the integrity of our democracy,” he added.
Nwosu condemned the failure of relevant institutions to safeguard the sanctity of the ballot, stating that true victory in an election is measured by the integrity of the process, not merely by the results announced.
“An election riddled with corruption, manipulation, and vote trading cannot and will never represent the voice of the people. A shambolic election confers a shambolic mandate,” the ADC candidate said.
He also condemned the failure of relevant institutions to safeguard the sanctity of the ballot, insisting that when fairness collapses, the system loses the moral authority to declare winners.
“This culture of electoral corruption must end if we truly desire a prosperous and just society,” he said.
The ADC candidate commended his party members, campaign team, and supporters for their integrity and resilience despite intimidation and financial inducements.
“You stood firm in the face of intimidation and inducement. You chose honour over compromise, truth over deceit, and conviction over convenience. You are the true defenders of democracy,” he stated.
Nwosu also reaffirmed his commitment to the ADC’s mission of building a new Anambra founded on transparency, values, and technology-driven governance.
“This struggle continues. We will not surrender. We will not be silent. Our movement will keep pressing until the people of Anambra can freely choose their leaders without fear or inducement. Anambra deserves better, and together, we will build it,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Governor Chukwuma Soludo as the winner of the election with 422,664 votes, while Nwosu scored 8,208 votes.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arrested three suspected vote buyers during the election, but INEC dismissed the claims, advising those making such allegations to provide credible evidence.
When the two strongest candidates went to vote, they mentioned vote-buying. But like I said during voter education, anyone with such information should provide facts and figures,” INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Anambra State, Queen Agwu, said.
“Vote-buying is a very serious offence and a legislative matter. If you want to accuse someone, give us evidence. You can’t just go on television and say there’s vote-buying everywhere without mentioning one place,” she added.
