In a bid that critics say underlines ongoing concerns about vote-buying in Nigeria’s Anambra State election, agents believed to be working for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) were reported distributing cash and gala spaghetti packs to voters during the 2025 Anambra governorship election.
Observers and local residents expressed alarm as the distribution, which is widely viewed as an attempt to influence voters, unfolded in several polling units across the state. The practice involved handing out what appeared to be modest cash amounts alongside popular gala spaghetti packets, a move seen by some as an inducement to secure votes.
An eyewitness recounted, “They were giving out money with gala spaghetti, telling voters this was their way to show appreciation for supporting APGA in past elections and to encourage their continued support.” The source noted the visible presence of APGA agents in the vicinity, highlighting the aggressive nature of the campaign strategy.
The action of distributing tangible goods alongside money has raised legal and ethical questions due to electoral laws prohibiting bribery and undue influence during elections. The Electoral Act of Nigeria clearly forbids any exchange of gifts or cash meant to sway voter decisions, classifying such acts as bribery punishable by fines or imprisonment.
When approached for comments, an APGA agent reportedly defended the distribution as a community gesture, stating, “This is a normal practice of giving appreciation to our supporters; it is not bribery but a way of showing love and ensuring everyone eats well on election day.”
However, critics from opposition parties and civil society groups have condemned the act, with some describing it as blatant vote-buying.
The implications of this practice are significant amid an already tense political climate in Anambra. Opposition representatives argue that such tactics corrupt the democratic process, undermining free and fair elections. “Buy votes, lose democracy,” declared one opposition leader, calling for independent bodies including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to intervene.
The electoral commission, INEC, has been urged to closely monitor these activities and enforce sanctions where violations are detected. The commission’s stance is crucial to maintaining electoral integrity and public confidence in the electoral system.
As Anambra voters head to the polls, the distribution of money and sustenance goods by party agents heightens the debate on the need for stricter enforcement of electoral laws to curb vote-buying and ensure that elections are decided on the merit of parties and candidates, rather than financial inducements.
