Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has warned that vote-buying in Nigeria is a direct investment in corruption and a serious threat to democracy.
In a post on X, the former Anambra State Governor argued that politicians who purchase votes are not helping the poor but rather “buying a licence to plunder” public funds. According to him, money meant for schools, hospitals, roads, and jobs often ends up in private pockets once such politicians assume office.
Vote-Selling Equals Selling the Future
Obi also challenged voters who trade their ballots for money or material gains, stressing that they are complicit in destroying their own future. “When you sell your vote, you sell the education your children deserve, the hospitals that should save lives, and the jobs that should reduce poverty,” he said.
Power Lies in the People
He emphasized that the desperation of politicians to buy votes proves that ballots are valuable. Obi urged Nigerians to reject vote-buying and instead use their votes to elect leaders committed to service, not looting.
“The choice is ours,” Obi declared, calling on citizens to embrace responsible voting to secure Nigeria’s future.
