Dare Babalola
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed deep concern over the conduct of the recently concluded Anambra gubernatorial election, describing it as a “cash-drenched spectacle” that undermined the essence of democracy.
In a statement by the party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi on Sunday, the ADC alleged that the election was highly monetised, with the incumbent and his party participating in
“cash-for-votes” practices.
The party also criticised security operatives and electoral officials for their apparent silence and inaction in enforcing electoral integrity.
“This undermines the very essence of democracy,” ADC claimed adding that “at polling units across the state, bundles of naira notes changed hands in full view. This was a brazen violation of the Electoral Act”.
The statement continued, “Even more troubling was the apparent silence — and in some instances, visible inaction — of institutions mandated to enforce electoral integrity. Security operatives stood by as voters were harassed and compromised, while electoral officials, overwhelmed or indifferent, failed to uphold even the most basic standards.
“If this is the manner in which INEC intends to conduct the 2027 general election, then Nigerians have every reason to be worried about the future of our democracy, especially at a time when the state of our nation is under the microscope of the international community.
“On our part, the ADC remains committed to building a Nigeria where leadership is earned through integrity, inclusion, and service — not through the crude exchange of cash for votes.”
