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The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged for strong measures to eradicate vote buying from its roots.
Obi made this appeal in a post on his verified X account on Sunday, expressing concern over the significant harm vote buying has inflicted on Nigerian society.
Describing the act as a cancer to Nigeria's development, the former governor of Anambra state noted that this practice has long compromised the nation’s democracy and damaged its credibility.
He stated that credible elections cannot thrive on corrupt foundations, and true national progress cannot be achieved while bribery and inducement are normalized within the democratic process.
“Just yesterday, Nigerians hoped that the House of Representatives would finally take a firm stance against the cancer of vote buying. This practice has long undermined our democracy and stained our nation's reputation. Unfortunately, that hope was swiftly dashed.
“By opting not to criminalize vote buying at the foundational stage of party primaries, the House has chosen to protect a flawed system rather than safeguard the nation's future.
“Efforts to eliminate vote buying must commence at the primaries. Without addressing the issue at its roots, any subsequent measures will lack the resilience needed to last.
“A democracy where votes are purchased is not a genuine democracy; it resembles a criminal marketplace. Nigeria deserves better. We must prioritize reform. The future of our democracy should not be for sale.
“Alarmingly, the culture of vote buying has now permeated town unions, village unions, clubs, associations, and even student elections, mirroring the actions of corrupt politicians. How long will we permit our society to be tainted when the solution lies in tackling the roots of the problem?
“A New Nigeria is achievable, but only if we confront these practices courageously and insist that integrity starts at the very beginning of our electoral process,” he wrote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peter Obi's stance on vote buying?
Peter Obi believes that strong measures are necessary to eliminate vote buying, considering it a significant threat to democracy and national integrity.
Why does Obi consider vote buying a cancer to democracy?
Obi describes vote buying as a cancer because it undermines democratic processes and corrupts the electoral system, leading to a loss of credibility in governance.
What does Obi suggest as the first step to combat vote buying?
Obi suggests that efforts to combat vote buying should begin at the party primaries, as addressing the issue at its roots is crucial for effective reform.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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