Electoral Commission Threatens Legal Action Against Campaign Finance Violations
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced it will monitor candidate spending for the 2027 general elections and prosecute individuals found guilty of vote buying. Dr. Queen Elizabeth Agwu, the INEC Resident Electoral Commission (REC) in charge of Anambra State, made these remarks during a stakeholders’ meeting on Friday.
The meeting was attended by leaders and representatives of political parties, candidates, community leaders, and media representatives. Agwu emphasized that the commission would not tolerate campaigns characterized by calumny or discussions regarding personal matters, such as family issues. She insisted that candidates must focus their efforts on what they can do for the people.
Agwu clarified that vote buying is conducted by political parties rather than INEC, the police, or other organizations. While she noted she has never witnessed vote buying herself, she urged attendees to report any instances of such activities.
Technology Renders Ballot Box Theft Ineffective
The commission also warned that attempts to snatch ballot boxes will fail due to technological safeguards implemented by INEC. Agwu stated that those planning to use thugs to carry ballot boxes would be disappointed because the stolen boxes would be useless.
She described snatching ballot boxes as obsolete, asserting that INEC possesses sufficient technology to render such boxes ineffective if an attempt is made to steal them. Additionally, Agwu warned INEC staff not to accept money from politicians. She stated that the commission will prosecute any politicians caught luring staff for result sheets or to rig elections.
Agwu assured stakeholders that plans are in place for the 2027 elections and promised there would be no glitches. She cited the successful conduct of the 2025 Anambra governorship election as precedent for the commission's capability.
FCT Minister Criticizes Commission’s Handling of Campaign Conduct
During the same period, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike faulted INEC for failing to sanction Vice Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rotimi Amaechi. Wike criticized the commission for not calling Amaechi to order for inciting the public on non-issue-based matters during his campaign.
Wike delivered this disapproval on Friday in Abuja after a meeting with FCT Area Council chairmen. He cited reports that Amaechi told voters in Edo State that "only thieves and mad people" would vote for President Bola Tinubu.