APC’s Nicholas Ukachukwu Alleges Vote Buying, Intimidation During Anambra Election

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Nicholas Ukachukwu, has raised concerns over vote buying and intimidation of party agents in the ongoing 2025 Anambra State governorship election.

Ukachukwu cast his vote at Polling Unit 012, Osumenyi Ward 2, describing the reported incidents as a threat to democracy.

“If there’s no seller, there cannot be a buyer. Some people have chosen to sell their conscience, which is even worse than those buying votes. When you give up your right for money, you lose your voice as a citizen. You can’t cry later, society must be blamed for encouraging this,” Ukachukwu said after voting.

He further reported that one of his agents had been assaulted during the voting process.

“There have been incidents where people are being beaten up. It’s a form of bullying, and though it may seem right to some today, power changes hands. God gives power to whomever He chooses,” he added.

Addressing concerns over election violence in Ihiala, a known flashpoint, Ukachukwu noted, “So far, there’s been no report of any death or serious unrest. There are always tensions during elections, but for now, it’s largely calm.”

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Elsewhere, the election has caused traffic disruptions in Onitsha, as security officials cordoned off the Niger Bridge to ensure the safe transport of election materials and personnel. Voting continues across Anambra’s 21 local government areas, with more than 5,700 polling units open. By 8:30 a.m., accreditation and voting had commenced peacefully in locations such as Fegge Community Primary School, Onitsha.

In Aguata Local Government Area, some traders initially opened shops at Nkwo Igboukwu Market despite the election, but market leaders later ordered closures to encourage voter participation.

INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan emphasised compliance with electoral procedures, stating that “no excuses for failure will be accepted.” Similarly, the Commissioner of Police for the election, Abayomi Shogunle, assured residents of adequate security, confirming that threats in high-risk areas like Ihiala had been neutralized.

According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), 2,802,790 registered voters are expected to cast their ballots across 5,718 polling units in the state’s 21 local government areas.

Sixteen candidates are vying for the governorship, including major contenders such as Governor Chukwuma Soludo (APGA), Nicholas Ukachukwu (APC), Paul Chukwuma (YPP), George Moghalu (LP), and Jude Ezenwafor (PDP).