Anambra Guber: Gov Soludo Faces Probe Over Planned Vote Buying, ₦1m Per Ward Promise

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has come under intense criticism and is now facing scrutiny over an alleged plan to influence voters ahead of the November 8 governorship election.

The controversy stems from his public pledge to reward wards that deliver victory for his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), with cash prizes.

During a campaign rally in Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area, the governor announced that “any ward that APGA wins will receive ₦1 million,” while the top three performing wards would receive ₦5 million, ₦2 million, and ₦1 million respectively.

Soludo’s statement immediately sparked outrage across political circles and civil society organisations, with many describing it as a clear case of inducement and a breach of the Electoral Act.

Critics say the promise amounts to vote buying disguised as a performance reward.

Opposition parties have condemned the governor’s action, accusing him of using state resources to manipulate the election process.
Some party leaders argued that the timing of such a promise, barely weeks before the election raises serious ethical and legal questions.

Meanwhile, electoral observers and rights groups have called for a full investigation into the matter, insisting that no form of financial incentive should be tied to electoral outcomes. They warned that allowing such practices could erode public trust in Nigeria’s democracy.

Governor Soludo, however, maintains that the pledge was simply a motivational gesture to encourage party members at the grassroots level.

Similarly, His aides have dismissed the allegations, insisting that the statement has been misinterpreted by political opponents.