The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room has exposed widespread vote trading in the recently concluded Ondo State governorship election.
According to the group, voters and party agents openly exchanged votes for cash in all 18 local government areas.
The price of a vote ranged between ₦10,000 and ₦20,000, the report revealed.
“Vote trading remains a persistent menace in our elections,” the Situation Room stated.
The election also witnessed a low voter turnout of just 29%, highlighting growing apathy among citizens.
“This level of apathy is concerning,” the group noted, urging efforts to rekindle voter interest.
While the election was peaceful and well-organized, the issue of vote buying overshadowed the progress.
The Situation Room called for electoral reforms to tackle vote trading and other irregularities.
It also recommended establishing an Electoral Offences Commission to address violations effectively.
The group commended security agents for their professionalism during the election.
However, it criticized the lack of support for voters with disabilities.
It urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prioritize inclusivity in future elections.
The Situation Room concluded by calling for stronger accountability in Nigeria’s electoral process.
