Vote-buying must stop – Abdulsalami tells politicians

Former Nigerian military leader and Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC), General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has called on politicians to halt the practice of vote-buying ahead of the upcoming Ondo State governorship election on November 16. Speaking during the Peace Accord signing ceremony held in Akure on Friday, Abdulsalami urged candidates to prioritize free and fair elections and to accept the outcome if adjudged credible.

In a firm appeal, Abdulsalami asked candidates from all 17 participating political parties to shun violence, intimidation, and vote-trading, emphasizing that it is the right of Nigerian citizens to elect leaders without inducement. He noted that any grievances after the election should be pursued through legitimate and peaceful channels.

“I urge all politicians to fully commit themselves to the spirit of the peace accord, to demonstrate sportsmanship, and to uphold good leadership values,” Abdulsalami stated. He also applauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Police Force for their roles in preparing for a peaceful election.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, underscored the importance of commitment to the peace accord, noting that peaceful elections require active adherence to the agreement by candidates and parties. Yakubu called on religious and community leaders to help maintain peace, stating that over seven peace accords have been signed for off-cycle elections since 2020.

Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Deputy Inspector General Sylvester Alabi, announced that police personnel will be deployed to all 3,933 polling units in Ondo State to ensure safety. He assured that five officers will be stationed at each polling unit to safeguard INEC officials, materials, and voters.