Fatimah Otunsanya
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has asked the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Joash Amupitan, to refer alleged cases of vote buying and undue influence recorded during the Anambra governorship election to anti-corruption agencies for investigation and prosecution.
SERAP made the call in a letter dated 8 November 2025 and signed by the organisation’s deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare.
It said the Anambra election witnessed widespread incidents of cash exchange and inducement across multiple polling units.
“The recurring cases of vote buying and undue influence make a mockery of Nigeria’s electoral process and participatory democracy,” SERAP wrote.
The group said it expected immediate referral of alleged offenders to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the police.
“Unless the legacy of impunity for these grave electoral offences is combated and perpetrators effectively prosecuted, those contemplating vote buying will feel unconstrained in future elections,” it stated.
It added that vote buying reportedly took place in the full view of election officials, with agents allegedly offering amounts ranging from ₦2,000 to ₦10,000 depending on the polling unit.
At Igboukwu Ward 2, Central School PU 017, party agents were reportedly seen distributing ₦5,000 to voters openly, without any response or deterrent from security personnel,” the organisation said.
SERAP warned that failure to address the allegations could erode voter confidence and cast doubt on the legitimacy of democratic outcomes.
“The effective prosecution of electoral bribery and vote buying would serve a legitimate aim, namely, the proper functioning and maintenance of the democratic and electoral processes.”
The organisation gave INEC seven days to respond.
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel you and INEC to comply with our request,” the letter added.
SERAP stressed that electoral integrity was central to Nigeria’s democracy.
“Electoral bribery and vote buying undermine the ability of INEC to discharge its responsibilities under the Constitution and the Electoral Act.