DSS Arrests Alleged Vote Buyer In Ondo Governorship Election.
Officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) have apprehended a suspected vote buyer in Akure, Ondo State, during the ongoing governorship election. The individual was reportedly found with two ‘Ghana Must Go’ bags filled with cash at St Stephen’s Primary School, Ijomu Akure, on Saturday morning.
The arrest highlights concerns over electoral malpractice in the state, particularly in areas like Akure, Ondo Town, Igbara Oke, Ilara-Mokin, and Okitipupa. Reports indicate that voters were allegedly encouraged to take photographs of their ballot papers and present them as proof to collect payments ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦25,000.
Observer Groups Raise Alarm
Two observer groups, the Joint Action Council for Democratic Governance (JACODEG) and the Social Alliance for Democratisation in Nigeria (SADEN), have criticised the widespread vote-buying practices in the election. In separate statements, they accused political actors, particularly from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), of orchestrating the scheme to manipulate the electoral process.
The groups expressed disappointment, stating, “The fears we harboured about vote-buying have unfortunately materialised. This practice undermines the credibility of the electoral process and threatens the democratic principles we strive to uphold.”
A Call for Transparency
As the election progresses, stakeholders and civil society organisations continue to call for stricter measures to combat vote-buying and ensure a transparent electoral process. The DSS’s swift action serves as a warning to those attempting to compromise the integrity of the polls.
Nigerians are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to relevant authorities, ensuring that the true will of the people is reflected in the election’s outcome.
