Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have apprehended three individuals over alleged involvement in vote-buying during the governorship election in Anambra State.
The suspects, identified as Emeka Ilokasia (arrested at Ward 2, Njikoka Local Government), Nwachukwu Loretta (arrested at Ward 2, Unit 008, Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government), and Emuka Chuwudi (arrested at Umunachi Village, Dunukofia Local Government) — were taken into custody during the electoral exercise held on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
In a statement issued shortly after the arrests, the EFCC confirmed that investigations are underway, adding that the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of inquiries.
The election, which commenced around 8 a.m., was largely peaceful across the 21 local government areas of the state, though reports of voter inducement and low voter turnout were recorded in some polling units.
An observer with the Situation Room, Dimma Nwobi, corroborated the reports of vote-buying, prompting the anti-graft agency to intensify its surveillance operations. Despite minor BVAS hitches, voting proceeded smoothly in most locations.
Meanwhile, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, alleged attempts by political opponents to manipulate results, urging security agencies to maintain vigilance.
Similarly, former governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, who cast his vote at Polling Unit 019, Umudim Akasi Agulu 2, Ward 8, cautioned electorates against selling their votes, describing it as “mortgaging their future for short-term gains.”
Across major cities like Onitsha and Awka, heavy security presence was observed, with strategic checkpoints and restricted movement on the Niger Bridge to ensure a peaceful process.
By Saturday evening, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had uploaded 98.99% of polling unit results to its Result Viewing Portal (IReV) — amounting to 5,662 out of 5,720 polling units where voting took place.
According to INEC data, 2,802,790 voters were registered to participate across 5,718 polling units. A total of 16 candidates contested the election, including Governor Charles Soludo (APGA), Nicholas Ukachukwu (APC), Paul Chukwuma (YPP), John Nwosu (ADC), and George Moghalu (LP).
The poll also featured notable female participation, including Ndidi Olieh (NRM) and six female deputy governorship candidates, such as Veronica Okaro (LP) and Faith Obi (ZLP).
Although the election was largely peaceful, several observers reiterated concerns about voter inducement, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement of electoral laws to safeguard the integrity of future polls.
