Anambra 2025: Why Soludo Promised Cash Rewards for Each Ward Won — APGA

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has defended Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, over his promise of cash rewards for wards won by the party in the November 8 governorship election, insisting the initiative is meant to tackle voter apathy and promote healthy competition, not to buy votes.

Soludo, who is seeking re-election on the APGA platform, had on Saturday announced at a campaign rally in Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area, that each ward won by the party would receive ₦1 million. He also pledged ₦5 million, ₦3 million, and ₦2 million respectively to the top three performing wards.

The announcement sparked criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups, who accused the governor of inducement and violation of the Electoral Act.

However, in a statement on Sunday, APGA’s National Publicity Secretary, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, described the backlash as misplaced. He said the governor’s remarks were taken out of context, explaining that the reward system was aimed at motivating party members and increasing voter turnout in a state where apathy has become a recurring challenge.

Opara said, “If you take a close look at elections in Anambra over the years, you will notice a high level of voter apathy. For instance, in 2021, Anambra had about 2.7 million registered voters, yet fewer than 200,000 actually decided the outcome. This initiative is not about vote-buying; it is about creating healthy competition among our members across wards and local governments to ensure more people participate in the election.”

He added that APGA remained the dominant political force in the state and did not need inducements to secure victory. Opara cited past examples of voters rejecting cash offers from rival parties, arguing that Anambra citizens could not be easily bought.

“As a party, we are mindful of what we call the ‘complacency of the majority,’ where people assume others will vote and end up staying at home. This initiative seeks to reverse that trend by energising the base and ensuring full mobilisation,” he stated.

Opara explained that the party’s goal was not just to win but to secure a strong mandate with at least one million votes, noting that the incentives were designed to drive participation rather than influence choice.

He concluded that those criticising the initiative likely benefit from voter apathy, which the measure seeks to overcome.

Sixteen political parties and candidates are set to contest the November 8 governorship election in Anambra, where Soludo, representing APGA, will seek a second term in office.