“Vote Buying Is Not a Measure of Popularity” — APC’s Ukachukwu on Anambra Election

Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the recent Anambra State governorship election, has criticized the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), claiming the party relied on vote buying rather than genuine popularity to secure victory. Speaking at a post-election press briefing in Awka on Sunday, Ukachukwu said the more than 90,000 votes he received came from citizens who resisted offers from alleged APGA vote buyers.

Ukachukwu argued that the announced results did not reflect the will of the people but were instead influenced by financial inducements. He claimed that if the APC had engaged in similar tactics, its vote count would have been significantly higher. Despite the outcome, he asserted that the election confirmed APC’s growing presence in Anambra, countering pre-election claims that the party lacked structure or support in the state.

The APC candidate also alleged intimidation and bias by security forces during the polls, claiming that several of his supporters were arrested on false charges and had their money confiscated. He expressed concern over the reported burning of a supporter’s house in Anambra East, a young widow allegedly targeted for her mobilization efforts in favor of APC, adding that authorities have yet to bring anyone to justice.

Ukachukwu said most arrests during the election appeared to target APC members, which he described as selective persecution. He revealed that the party is still gathering reports and evidence on the election before determining its next steps. “We are still collecting reports and data from across the state. Once we have all the facts and consult with the party leadership, we will decide the next steps. We won’t rush into any decision,” he stated.