As the governorship election in Osun State unfolds, serious allegations of vote-buying have surfaced against the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Accord Party. Reports indicate that both parties have been distributing cash incentives ranging from N10,000 to N20,000 to voters, with such activities commencing as early as six days prior to the election.
Sources reveal that voters have been approached by agents from both parties, who collected their bank account details with promises of cash transfers post-voting. This tactic appears to be a departure from previous elections, where such inducements were typically reserved for election day itself. In Ilesa, voters reported receiving N20,000 from the APC, with cash distributions taking place in designated homes of local party leaders.
The situation escalated with reports of spiritual elements involved in the inducement process, where beneficiaries were compelled to swear oaths to vote for the respective candidates in exchange for cash and food items. Videos circulating on social media show supporters from both parties distributing cash, rice, and salt while urging recipients to remain loyal at the polls.
In various local government areas, the APC reportedly allocated N700,000 for vote-buying across 170 polling units in Iwo LGA, while the Accord Party has also engaged in similar practices, albeit at a lower rate of N10,000 per voter. Voters in areas such as Ede and Ileogbo confirmed receiving cash and were often asked to form groups to facilitate the distribution process.
The police have issued warnings against vote-buying, emphasizing that anyone caught engaging in such practices will face arrest and prosecution. The Force Public Relations Officer reiterated the commitment to ensuring a secure electoral process for all involved.
Amid these allegations, violence has surged in the state, with reports of at least eight fatalities linked to political clashes in Ilesa and surrounding areas. The police confirmed that many of these incidents are tied to cult-related activities, further complicating the already tense electoral atmosphere.
As the election progresses, both the APC and Accord Party have traded accusations of employing thugs to intimidate opponents and voters. The APC claims that the Accord Party is harboring political thugs in the Government House, while the Accord Party has raised alarms about attacks on its members, alleging that several have been injured or killed in the lead-up to the election.
With over 1.9 million registered voters expected to participate, the integrity of the electoral process in Osun State hangs in the balance as allegations of vote-buying and violence continue to dominate the narrative ahead of the polls.
Sources
- Punch Newspapers Original article
