By Muhammad Mamman
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed reports alleging widespread vote-buying during the just-concluded Anambra election, describing the claims as baseless and misleading.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Commission clarified that its officials and security agencies on the ground closely monitored polling activities and found no evidence to substantiate the allegations circulating on social media and in some news outlets.
INEC emphasised that it remained committed to ensuring transparency and credibility in the electoral process, adding that any verified case of electoral malpractice would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in line with the law.
“The Commission’s attention has been drawn to reports suggesting large-scale vote-buying in some polling units during the Anambra election. We wish to state categorically that such claims are unfounded. Our monitoring teams and accredited observers did not report any systemic irregularities of this nature,” the statement read in part.
INEC further appealed to political parties, candidates, and the media to verify information before dissemination, warning that false reports could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The Commission reaffirmed its readiness to work with relevant stakeholders to strengthen the integrity of future elections across the country.
