The Social and Integral Development Centre (SIDEC) has urged voters in Anambra State to reject all forms of vote buying and uphold the integrity of the forthcoming November 8 governorship election.
Its Executive Director, Ugochi Ehiahuruike, made the appeal while addressing traders — mostly women — during a voter education and sensitization campaign at the Eke Igbo-Ukwu Market in Aguata Local Government Area.
The campaign, part of Project IMPACT, is implemented by SIDEC in collaboration with the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room and funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
Ehiahuruike said the initiative aims to discourage voter apathy and curb electoral corruption, emphasizing the need for citizens to reject financial inducements during elections.
“Our message is simple — say no to vote trading. If you’re not ready to sell, the buyers will not come to you,” she stated.
The SIDEC boss encouraged voters to emulate a woman who, during the 2021 governorship election, rejected a N5,000 bribe from politicians and was later rewarded with N1 million by the governor for her integrity.
“Do not sell your future or that of your children for peanuts. No amount of money can replace good governance. Insist on electing competent and trustworthy leaders,” she advised.
Ehiahuruike reminded voters that recent electoral reforms have strengthened Nigeria’s voting process, making votes count more than ever before.
“Politicians now know they can’t manipulate the system as before, so they resort to buying votes. That’s why your vote is your power — don’t misuse it,” she emphasized.
She also urged citizens to respect the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, especially those guaranteeing priority voting for persons with disabilities (PWDs), pregnant women, nursing mothers, and the elderly.
“Allow them to cast their votes first. It’s not only lawful but also humane,” she said.
The SIDEC Executive Director further warned against electoral violence, urging voters not to allow politicians to exploit them for selfish ends.
“Shun violence before, during, and after the election. No politician’s ambition is worth your life,” she cautioned.
In her remarks, SIDEC Coordinator in Aguata LGA, Ngozi Oragbakosi, encouraged traders to come out en masse to vote on election day.
“Whether able-bodied or living with disability, everyone has the right to vote and be treated fairly. Cast your vote and keep it secret — that’s what democracy means,” she said.
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