By Our Reporter
Anambra Governor and candidate of ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chukwuma Soludo has come under intense criticism and scrutiny over his controversial campaign promise to dole out millions to voters ahead of the November 8 governorship election.
The controversy stems from his pledge to reward wards that deliver victory for him and the ruling APGA with ₦1m cash prizes per ward.
Soludo had announced during a campaign rally in Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area, that “any ward that APGA wins will receive ₦1 million,” while the top three performing wards would receive ₦5 million, ₦2 million, and ₦1 million respectively.
AnambraDaily can authoritatively report that former Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN’s statement has sparked outrage across political circles and civil society organisations in Anambra and beyond, with many describing it as a clear case of inducement and a breach of the Electoral Act.
Critics say the promise amounts to vote buying disguised as a performance reward.
Opposition parties have condemned the governor’s action, accusing him of using state resources to manipulate the election process.
Some party leaders argued that the timing of such a promise, barely weeks before the election raises serious ethical and legal questions.
Some observers and rights groups have called for a full investigation into the matter, insisting that no form of financial incentive should be tied to electoral outcomes. They warned that allowing such practices could erode public trust in Nigeria’s democracy.
Governor Soludo, however, maintains that the pledge was simply a motivational gesture to encourage party members at the grassroots level.
Similarly, His aides have dismissed the allegations, insisting that the statement has been misinterpreted by political opponents.
