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INEC says no credible evidence of vote-buying has been presented.
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Soludo, Moghalu, and Ifemeludike earlier alleged cash inducement at polling units.
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REC Queen Agwu insists no verified report reached INEC’s situation room.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed allegations of widespread vote-buying during Saturday’s Anambra State governorship election, insisting that no credible evidence has been presented to support the claims.
The clarification follows separate accusations from key candidates, including Prof. Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Labour Party’s George Moghalu, and African Action Congress’ Chioma Ifemeludike, who alleged that voters were openly paid between ₦3,000 and ₦5,000 in some polling units across the state.
READ ALSO: Soludo Sweeps 19 LGAs as INEC Collation Nears Completion in Anambra Election
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Speaking on Channels Television’s “News at 10” on Saturday, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Anambra State, Dr Queen Elizabeth Agwu, dismissed the claims as unsubstantiated and urged anyone with concrete proof to come forward.
She said, “When the two strongest candidates went to vote, they mentioned vote-buying. But as I stated during voter education, anyone with such information should provide facts and figures. Vote-buying is a very serious offence and a legislative matter. If you want to accuse someone, give us evidence.”
While acknowledging minor logistical challenges in some areas, the REC maintained that no verified case of vote-buying was reported to INEC’s situation room during the entire exercise.
“For those of us in the situation room, I was monitoring all through, and there was no report of delay in material distribution or any confirmed case of vote-buying,” she added.
Agwu stated that neither INEC officials nor accredited local and international observers reported any case of inducement, describing the claims as mere rumours.
On voter turnout, she said it was premature to draw conclusions until collation of results was complete, noting that reports from the field indicated heavy early turnout in many polling units.
The REC also commended the smooth conduct of the election, citing early deployment of materials, effective BVAS performance, and adequate security presence as major positives.
Meanwhile, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) confirmed the arrest of three suspected vote buyers — Emeka Ilokasia (Njikoka LGA), Nwachukwu Loretta (Oyi LGA), and Emuka Chuwudi (Dunukofia LGA) — who will face prosecution after investigations.
