The 2025 Anambra State governorship election on Saturday, November 8, took a dramatic turn as political agents were seen distributing Gala sausages, malt drinks, and money to voters at polling units.
Many Nigerians have described the move as “vote-buying in snack form,” sparking widespread mockery and outrage on social media. Users flooded platforms with comments such as, “Gala and malt today, four years of fasting tomorrow,” while others joked, “Na democracy or break time snack?”
Observers criticized how hunger and poverty are being exploited as tools for political manipulation, reducing elections to a cheap bargaining tool for citizens’ futures. Voters were photographed accepting the refreshments in queues while being identified by their voter cards.
Voting amid challenges
Voting is ongoing across Anambra’s 5,720 polling units, with 16 candidates contesting the governorship. Incumbent Governor Charles Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) seeks a second term, facing competition from Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other contenders.
Despite the early arrival of election materials, technical glitches with the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) delayed voter accreditation in several locations. In communities like Ekwulummiri, residents complained about long waits and repeated device failures. Turnout appeared lower than in previous elections, as citizens cited frustration with governance and lack of faith in the process.
Security and vote-buying allegations
Security forces maintained a visible presence across major towns, restricting vehicular movement to ensure a peaceful voting environment. While the atmosphere was mostly calm, reports of voter intimidation and subtle vote-buying persisted.
Governor Soludo, after casting his vote, expressed confidence in his party’s performance but accused opposition elements of attempting to manipulate results. His main rival, Nicholas Ukachukwu, alleged widespread vote manipulation, calling on INEC to ensure transparency.
Former governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also participated, voting in his hometown.
As of late afternoon, voting and counting continued, with official results expected from INEC after collation.
Watch the video below…