Table of Contents
- Call for Arrest of Vote Buyers
- Peaceful Election Process
- Importance of Votes
- Concerns About Vote Buying
- Call to Action
Senator Victor Umeh, representing the Anambra Central Senatorial Zone, has urged the authorities to arrest individuals involved in vote buying, emphasizing that such actions undermine the democratic process.
This statement was made during a press interview with journalists shortly after he cast his vote at polling unit 019, located at Aguluzoigbo Town Hall, ward three, in the Anaocha Local Government Area.
Umeh remarked that the election has been predominantly peaceful, noting that, unlike previous elections which were marred by complaints regarding the malfunctioning of the BVAS machine, this process has proceeded without issues.
He stated: “This is the first time I have not received complaints from my constituents about any issues preventing them from voting.”
“The atmosphere in the state is calm, and there have been no reports of BVAS malfunctions or security issues. I have received updates indicating that security is stable, and today everything seems to be in order without any negative reports.”
“We must elect leaders based on the people's votes, and we should reject manipulation and rigging that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process. If we commit to this, our democracy will flourish.”
“Having experience in elections, I believe it is premature to draw conclusions at this stage. By tomorrow morning, we will have a clearer picture of whether the state remained peaceful. Once the final results are counted and announced, aligning with the people's expectations, we can then assess the credibility of the election.”
On the subject of vote buying, the senator remarked: “Anyone who believes that the only path to office is through rigging and vote buying becomes an adversary of the state and of Nigeria.”
“Vote buying has been explicitly outlawed. During the by-election on August 16, there were numerous reports of vote buying; however, those who engage in selling their votes must realize they are forfeiting their right to voice complaints.”
“I cannot comprehend how much money would be sufficient to sustain someone for four years. Anyone who accepts money today will likely find it gone within two days, losing their right to complain.”
“Those of us in the National Assembly understand the sentiments of the nation, and it is not solely our responsibility to change Nigeria; it is the citizens of Nigeria who will drive change through their actions. They are the ones who elect leaders, so if they accept money to vote for someone they do not trust, they are harming themselves and their families.”
“If there is evidence of vote buying, and it is validated, those responsible should face arrest. The right approach is to evaluate candidates fairly and vote accordingly. By doing so, we contribute to strengthening democracy in our country.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Senator Victor Umeh say about vote buying?
Senator Umeh called for the arrest of those involved in vote buying, stating that such actions undermine democracy and that individuals engaged in this practice are harming themselves and their rights to complain.
How did the election process go according to Senator Umeh?
Senator Umeh reported that the election was largely peaceful and without the complaints of malfunctioning BVAS machines that have plagued previous elections. He noted a calm atmosphere in the state during the voting process.
What is the senator's perspective on the role of citizens in democracy?
Senator Umeh emphasized that it is the citizens of Nigeria who will bring about change in the country through their actions and voting choices, urging them to vote for trustworthy candidates rather than accepting money to sway their votes.
