Politics
INEC Urges ICPC, EFCC to Stop Vote-Buying in Edo Election
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has urged security agencies to intensify efforts in curbing the practice of vote-buying ahead of the Edo State Governorship election.
Yakubu particularly called on the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to take the lead in targeting individuals or groups planning to engage in this illegal activity during Election Day.
Speaking at a meeting with the Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) in Benin, the Edo State capital, Yakubu emphasized that both national and international communities are closely watching the conduct of the election.
He stressed the critical importance of cooperation between INEC and security agencies to ensure that the election is not only peaceful but also credible.
According to him, a strong partnership is essential in safeguarding the democratic process and maintaining public confidence in the electoral system.
Yakubu expressed deep concerns over the rise of vote-buying, which he described as a direct threat to the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.
He pointed out that as INEC continues to improve the electoral process, certain individuals try to find ways to undermine it by purchasing votes at polling units.
“You need to deploy a strategy for combating vote-buying.
It has been a feature in our elections, and the more INEC improves on the processes, the more some people try to beat the process by now going to buy the votes at the polling units,” Yakubu stated.
He also made an important observation, noting that the very act of vote-buying indicates that votes are becoming more influential.
“If people are buying votes, it means that the votes are counting, and that’s why they are buying them.
But we cannot allow vote-buyers to dictate the outcomes of our democratic elections.
Our system is based on democracy by the people, for the people, and not plutocracy, where only the wealthy hold power,” he remarked.
On security measures, the Commissioner of Police for Edo State, Nemo Edwin-Iwo, assured that the police and other security agencies are fully prepared to secure the election.
He outlined the steps taken to ensure that the state remains peaceful before, during, and after the voting process.
He revealed that the police had conducted a comprehensive review of their security strategies and, in collaboration with other agencies, were ready to deploy sufficient personnel to monitor the election effectively.
The goal is to maintain full control of the security situation and prevent any disruptions or violence.
Edwin-Iwo confirmed that security forces are also keeping a close watch on non-state actors, emphasizing that no group will be allowed to disrupt the election.
He added that preliminary actions have already been taken against individuals or groups suspected of planning to cause unrest or interfere with the electoral process.
Both Yakubu’s call for a crackdown on vote-buying and the police’s assurances of heightened security reflect a determined effort to ensure that the Edo State Governorship election is free, fair, and devoid of undue influence.
As the election draws near, the collaboration between INEC and security agencies will be critical in maintaining public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Politics
Obi: Edo Voters Will Block Election Rigging Attempts
As the Edo State gubernatorial election approaches this Saturday, Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has assured voters that they hold the power to prevent any attempts to manipulate the election results.
Speaking in Benin on Wednesday during a large rally in support of Olumide Akpata, the LP candidate for governor, Obi made it clear that the electorate will play a key role in safeguarding the election’s integrity.
He emphasized the importance of the people’s participation in ensuring a free and fair election, urging them to be vigilant and proactive in resisting any efforts by individuals or groups aiming to rig the process.
Obi’s remarks were met with enthusiasm by the gathered supporters, who are hopeful that their votes will count and that the election will reflect the will of the people.
The rally, held as the final event in Akpata’s campaign, attracted a large turnout, demonstrating the growing support for the Labour Party in Edo State.
Obi, in his address, reinforced his belief in the power of the people to shape their future through the ballot box, stressing that they should not allow any forces to undermine their democratic rights.
As the election draws near, the Labour Party is positioning itself as a strong contender, with Akpata’s candidacy receiving widespread attention.
Obi’s presence at the rally underscored the party’s commitment to a transparent electoral process and the need for citizens to actively defend their right to choose their leaders without interference.
Entertainment
Pharrell William Slams Celebrity Political Endorsements
Pharrell Williams has criticized celebrities for endorsing political candidates, stating that he prefers to avoid political involvement.
In an interview, he expressed frustration with celebrities influencing voter decisions and emphasized his focus on humanitarian work rather than politics. Williams prefers to stay out of political debates and focus on action, in contrast to recent celebrity endorsements like Taylor Swift’s for the 2025 election.
Politics
‘In an economy where you have illiteracy, hunger, and poverty politicians will naturally weaponise these deficiencies’—DIG Frank Mbah
DIG Frank Mbah commented on vote buying, stating that in economies plagued by illiteracy, hunger, and poverty, politicians are likely to exploit these vulnerabilities. He acknowledged the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing this issue but emphasized that they will do what they can to curb such practices. His remarks highlight the intersection of socioeconomic factors and election integrity.
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