The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the 2025 Anambra Governorship Election, Nicholas Ukachukwu, has alleged widespread vote buying and intimidation of his party agents.
When asked about the situation in Ihiala, one of the state’s flashpoints, Ukachukwu confirmed there had been no major unrest. “So far, there’s been no report of any death or serious unrest. There are always tensions during elections, but for now, it’s largely calm,” he said.
Ukachukwu, who voted at Osumenyi Ward 2, Polling Unit 012, described the acts as a major threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
“If there’s no seller, there cannot be a buyer. 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. You can’t cry later, society must be blamed for encouraging this,” Ukachukwu said after casting his vote
He also reported that one of his agents had been assaulted, describing the incidents as political bullying. “There have been incidents where people are being beaten up. It’s a form of bullying, and though it may seem right to some today, power changes hands. God gives power to whomever He chooses,” he added.
Meanwhile, security officials cordoned off the Niger Bridge in Onitsha to control traffic and ensure the safe transport of election materials and personnel. Voting and accreditation commenced across the 21 local government areas, with reports of early starts in several polling units.
INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, urged adherence to electoral rules, warning that “no excuses for failure will be accepted.” The Commissioner of Police, Abayomi Shogunle, also assured voters of adequate security, confirming that threats in high-risk zones like Ihiala had been contained.
According to INEC, 2,802,790 registered voters are participating across 5,718 polling units in the state, where 16 candidates are contesting. Major contenders include Governor Chukwuma Soludo (APGA), Nicholas Ukachukwu (APC), Paul Chukwuma (YPP), George Moghalu (LP), and Jude Ezenwafor (PDP).
What You Should Know
Nicholas Ukachukwu, the APC governorship candidate, has raised concerns about electoral malpractice and voter intimidation during the Anambra election.
His remarks highlight Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with vote buying and electoral violence. Despite his concerns, voting has largely been peaceful, with INEC and security agencies assuring fair conduct.
Ukachukwu’s comments reflect broader anxieties about democracy’s integrity and the need for citizens to reject inducement and uphold electoral values.
