The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in the recent Anambra State election, Mr. John Nwosu, has vehemently rejected the declared outcome, citing widespread vote-buying and significant irregularities throughout the electoral process. Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Nwosu asserted that the election, which saw Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) secure a second term, was neither free nor fair, alleging that the victory was effectively purchased through cash inducements.

Nwosu provided firsthand accounts of the alleged malpractices, claiming he personally witnessed instances of vote-buying in his own ward. He recounted seeing individuals collecting money before casting their ballots. Furthermore, he accused a former treasurer of APGA of being present, holding a notebook where voters registered their names before proceeding to a house to collect payments. He estimated that a substantial majority, approximately 99%, of voters who supported APGA, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and other parties received cash sums ranging from 3,000 naira to N20,000 for their votes.

Beyond individual instances, Nwosu implicated both APGA and APC in systemic illicit practices, alleging that supporters of these parties were apprehended with considerable sums of money, specifically over ₦70 million, along with bags of rice, which were allegedly designated for vote-buying and other forms of voter inducement. He urged for the prosecution of these individuals and emphasized the need for government agencies entrusted with elections to cease overlooking the profound impact of vote-buying.

The ADC candidate also expressed doubts about the official results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), particularly questioning figures from several local government areas, including his own, which he maintained did not accurately reflect the actual votes cast. Addressing potential criticisms, Nwosu firmly denied that his current stance was influenced by his prior departure from APGA. He clarified that his decision to leave APGA stemmed from a lack of internal democracy within the party and underscored his unwavering commitment to integrity and democratic values.

Nwosu, identifying himself as an entrepreneur and a Catholic, affirmed that he possessed the financial means to engage in vote-buying but consciously chose not to, asserting that such actions would violate his conscience and personal values. Despite his strong grievances regarding the election's integrity, Nwosu clarified that his political aspirations were not a 'do-or-die' pursuit. He expressed a willingness to collaborate with anyone for the betterment and progress of Anambra State, while simultaneously stressing the critical importance of a legitimate and transparent process for leaders to emerge. He warned that a failure to address ongoing illegalities would perpetuate a cycle where future elections are marred by unscrupulous practices.

In light of these concerns, Nwosu confirmed that his party, the African Democratic Congress, is currently undertaking a comprehensive review of the entire election process. Following this review, the party will announce its decision on whether to pursue legal action by heading to court. Meanwhile, Professor Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance was officially declared the winner of the November 8 Anambra State governorship election, securing a second term expected to last until 2030.