Election observer alleges vote buying, poor security during Anambra guber polls

Ms. Dimma Nwobi, a seasoned Election Observer from the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room, has expressed serious concerns over alleged vote buying and alarming security lapses at several polling units in Nnewi South, casting doubt on the credibility and transparency of the electoral process in the area.

Nwobi made the observation while speaking with newsmen at Nnewi South Area during Saturday’s governorship election.

She described it as a disturbing practice where party operatives were collecting voters’ cards, with INEC officials providing forms to vote which were then handed back to party agents to deposit in the ballot boxes.

“They are actually buying votes, negotiating. It is sad,” Nwobi said.

She also reported that a party agent visibly upset about the situation was shouting at an INEC official.

On security, Nwobi pointed out that only one policeman was assigned to four polling units at a local school, which she deemed insufficient.

“I have escalated the matter to our Situation Room so that more policemen can be deployed to the school,” she added.