Temitayo Olumofe
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has sparked significant controversy after he announced financial rewards for wards and local government areas (LGAs) that deliver electoral victories for his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), ahead of the November 8, 2025, governorship election. Speaking at a campaign rally on October 25, 2025, in Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area, Soludo promised that any ward that wins for APGA would receive ₦1 million. Additionally, he said the first three performing wards would be rewarded ₦5 million, ₦2 million, and ₦1 million, respectively. For the local governments, the top three winners would receive ₦10 million, ₦5 million, and ₦3 million, respectively. This bold move has ignited passionate reactions across the political spectrum, raising questions about the legality, ethics, and implications of such promises in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Governor Soludo’s announcement at the rally explicitly incentivizes political outcomes with cash rewards linked directly to the success of APGA candidates in wards and LGAs. “For November 8, any ward that wins again will receive ₦1 million, while the first three performing wards will get ₦5 million, ₦2 million, and ₦1 million respectively,” Soludo declared. He reinforced the message by stating, “The local government that emerges first in the election will receive ₦10 million, the second place ₦5 million, and third place ₦3 million.” At a previous House of Assembly election, Soludo noted similar financial incentives were offered, apparently reinforcing his resolve to replicate the strategy.
This tactic, while aimed at energizing party supporters and rewarding campaign effectiveness, has been condemned by opposition parties and civil society organizations as a blatant act of vote-buying. The National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the South-East, Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, described it as “vote-buying and abuse of office,” accusing Soludo of exerting undue influence on communities through their leaders. “The N1 million offer is just one of many. We will write to INEC, EFCC, police, and other relevant security agencies about his actions,” Arodiogbu warned.
Similarly, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Labour Party (LP) have voiced strong criticism. ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate, stating Soludo’s promise was “a public confession of vote-buying.” The LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, criticized the timing and motive, framing it as exploiting poverty and a manipulation tactic to “buy legitimacy with money.” He declared, “This is not good for democracy. Why is he giving out money now that elections are near?”
Soludo’s camp, including the Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, rebuffed these accusations, framing the rewards as motivational incentives rather than inducements. Mefor remarked that opposition parties deliberately misrepresented Soludo’s remarks and that his promise was intended to encourage healthy competition and voter participation.
Legally, Soludo’s reward scheme raises critical questions under the Nigerian Electoral Act, which prohibits any form of inducement, bribery, or gift-giving intended to influence voting behavior. Experts argue that promising cash to wards and LGAs contingent upon electoral outcomes aligns closely with the definition of vote-buying, which undermines the integrity of democratic processes.
Electoral law specialist Dr. Chinonso Umeh explains, “Any promise or delivery of money to voters or political agents aiming to influence election results is unlawful under the Electoral Act. This practice violates free and fair election principles and could attract sanctions against perpetrators.”
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Nigeria’s electoral umpire, faces pressure from various political actors and civil society groups to investigate and take appropriate action. The commission’s role includes ensuring that elections are conducted transparently and devoid of corrupt influences. Should evidence of vote-buying be established, statutory penalties may include disqualification of candidates, fines, or even criminal prosecution.
Furthermore, the implications for governance and public trust are profound. If election outcomes hinge on financial inducements rather than policies and governance records, democracy suffers. Such practices could deepen voter cynicism, reduce civic engagement on substantive issues, and entrench corruption at different government levels.
Civil society advocate Jake Epelle of TAF Africa condemned Soludo’s strategy, branding it as “political rascality” and a threat to electoral integrity. He stressed, “Leaders should focus on development and governance, not cash incentives. This undermines democratic values and sets a dangerous precedent.”
The November 8 election in Anambra State is highly contested, with APGA seeking a second term under Soludo’s leadership while facing strong opposition from 15 other parties. Approximately 2.8 million registered voters are expected to participate. The stakes are high, with issues including governance performance, regional development, and the legacy of previous administrations shaping voter expectations.
APGA’s campaign council was launched earlier, mobilizing a strong grassroots network, signaling the party’s intent for a sweeping victory. However, the financial reward system introduced by Soludo has overshadowed many campaign narratives, becoming a central talking point in media houses and public discourse. On the social front, cash incentives may appeal to economically disadvantaged voters facing hardship, presenting a tempting short-term gain. However, critics argue this commodifies political participation and deepens poverty cycles by encouraging transactional politics.
The controversy also spotlights the broader challenge Nigeria faces in combating electoral malpractice, including vote-buying, intimidation, and ballot manipulation. Stakeholders urge stronger enforcement of electoral laws, voter education, and institutional reforms to promote credible elections.
Governor Soludo’s pledge of cash rewards for electoral victory in wards and LGAs, announced on October 25, 2025, has unveiled complex dimensions of Nigerian electoral politics, blurring lines between strategic campaign incentives and illegal vote inducements. While aimed at motivating support for APGA, the move raises pressing legal and ethical concerns about democratic fairness, electoral integrity, and governance accountability.
Governor Soludo’s promise could extend beyond Anambra State, potentially influencing political campaign practices in Nigeria. The outcome may either reinforce or discourage the use of financial incentives during elections, shaping voter behavior and trust in the democratic process for years to come. Vigilance from both citizens and institutions remains critical to safeguarding electoral integrity against such controversial tactics.
As Nigeria approaches the November 8 poll, the Independent National Electoral Commission’s response and enforcement of electoral laws will be closely watched, with potential ramifications for the credibility of both the election and the broader democratic process in Anambra State.