The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has threatened to prosecute candidates involved in vote buying ahead of the 2027 general election, warning political parties against electoral malpractice.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Anambra State, Dr Queen Elizabeth Agwu, gave the warning on Friday, during a stakeholders’ meeting attended by political party representatives, candidates, community leaders and media representatives.
Agwu said the commission would monitor candidates’ spending during the elections and urged members of the public to report incidents of vote buying.
She challenged political parties to use their campaigns to explain their programmes and plans to voters rather than offer money in exchange for votes.
The REC also warned candidates against engaging thugs to disrupt the electoral process, urging political parties to conduct peaceful and orderly campaigns.
She called on candidates to focus on issues affecting voters rather than personal attacks, saying campaigns should give citizens the opportunity to assess candidates’ plans and proposed policies.
Agwu assured stakeholders that INEC had made adequate preparations for the 2027 elections and expressed confidence that the exercise would proceed without technical glitches.
She urged political parties and candidates to begin preparations early and engage voters through peaceful campaigns.
The REC reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to conducting free, fair, credible, inclusive and conclusive elections in Anambra State.
She also announced that INEC’s online portal was open for applications for various ad hoc positions, encouraging qualified residents to apply.
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