By Boluwatife Adedokun
Voting at Polling Unit 12, Umu Ezunu Square II, Awkuzu IV Ward 04, in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State was thrown into confusion on Saturday morning following reports of open vote buying and rowdy conduct.
According to findings by the Harbinger correspondent under the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), some voters were sighted leaving the polling unit with small bags of rice allegedly distributed by party agents in exchange for votes. Others reportedly received cash payments ranging from ₦5,000 and above, a development that stirred disorder despite the presence of security operatives.
Eyewitnesses said the chaotic scene disrupted the voting process temporarily as party supporters clashed over accusations of inducement and manipulation. Electoral officials and security agents were seen making efforts to restore calm and continue the voting exercise under tense conditions.
As of 10:41 a.m., voting was still ongoing, though the atmosphere remained uneasy. Observers have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to step up enforcement to curb vote trading and ensure the integrity of the Anambra Governorship Election.
