The All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to investigate Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, over alleged inducement of voters ahead of the state’s forthcoming governorship election.
Speaking to The Punch, APC National Secretary, Ajibola Bashiru, accused Soludo of breaching electoral laws by offering cash rewards to wards that deliver victory for his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
Naija News reports that during a campaign rally in Umunze, Orumba South, on October 25, Soludo pledged monetary incentives to communities based on election performance.
“Any ward that APGA wins will receive ₦1 million. The ward that comes first will get ₦5 million, the second ₦3 million, and the third ₦2 million,” Soludo announced at the rally.
The APC described the governor’s statement as “a reflection of desperation and lack of confidence,” saying it violates the spirit of free and fair elections.
“If after three years in office, he cannot campaign based on performance, then he has failed. INEC must probe this conduct and issue a warning, while the police should investigate APGA’s campaign finances,” Bashiru insisted.
However, Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, dismissed the APC’s claims, describing the party as a “pathetic opposition” with no grassroots presence in the state.
He explained that the governor’s remarks were meant to encourage voter participation, not to buy votes.
“Governor Soludo’s reward system is for all registered voters, regardless of party. His goal is to boost voter turnout, which has been very low in Anambra elections,” Mefor clarified.
He added that Soludo’s popularity is rooted in his performance and reforms, noting that “many communities have voluntarily donated millions to support his re-election.”
With the Anambra governorship election only days away, the controversy has intensified the political atmosphere, raising questions about campaign ethics, electoral fairness, and oversight by INEC and the police.
