The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the behavior surrounding the 2025 Anambra governorship election, characterizing it as a blatant display of monetary influence that undermined democracy. In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party accused the ruling party and the sitting governor of widespread vote buying. It also criticized security forces and election officials for seemingly ignoring the situation. The statement noted, “What happened in Anambra was, unfortunately, a cash-drenched spectacle that resembled a marketplace more than a proper election.” This weakens the fundamental nature of democracy. The ADC stated that the election was heavily influenced by money, alleging that bundles of Naira notes were exchanged openly at polling stations throughout the state. The party raised concerns about the inaction and silence of institutions responsible for ensuring the integrity of the elections. It cautioned that if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) runs the 2027 general elections in the same manner, Nigerians should be apprehensive about the future of democracy. “Security officials observed as voters were intimidated and compromised, while electoral staff neglected to meet basic standards,” the statement noted. The ADC affirmed its dedication to fostering leadership based on integrity, inclusion, and service, rather than the blatant trade of cash for votes.
