THE All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has defended Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, over his recent promise to reward party wards with cash incentives during the upcoming November 8 governorship election.
The governor, who is also the APGA candidate, had announced at a campaign rally in Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area, that every ward won by APGA would receive ₦1 million.
He added that the top three performing wards would get ₦5 million, ₦3 million, and ₦2 million respectively.
The pledge, however, sparked criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups, who described it as a form of vote-buying and a violation of the Electoral Act.
In a statement yesterday, APGA’s National Publicity Secretary, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, dismissed the allegations, insisting that the initiative was aimed at addressing voter apathy and promoting healthy competition within the party.
Opara noted that voter turnout in Anambra elections has historically been low.
“In 2021, there were about 2.7 million registered voters, yet fewer than 200,000 actually voted,” he said. “This initiative is not about buying votes but about encouraging active participation and rewarding commitment.”
He stressed that APGA, as the dominant party in the state, had no need for inducements to win. “Even the opposition knows that APGA doesn’t need to buy votes.
Ndi Anambra have proven over time that they can’t be swayed by money,” Opara added, referencing a viral 2021 incident where a woman in Ukwulu rejected an alleged monetary offer to vote for another party.
According to him, the governor’s initiative is intended to counter the “complacency of the majority” — where many assume others will vote, leading to poor turnout.
“Our goal is to mobilize our full strength and secure at least one million votes,” he said.
Opara maintained that “appropriate incentives” like Soludo’s cash pledge would inspire participation and ensure that every ward plays an active role in ensuring victory for APGA.
Sixteen candidates from different political parties will contest the November 8 election, with Governor Soludo seeking re-election for a second term.