The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room (NCSSR) reported vote-buying in the Edo governorship election, where voters were allegedly offered ₦5,000–₦10,000 and food items like bread. Despite arrests of vote traders, incidents occurred across multiple polling units, while CSOs urged voters to stay peaceful and vigilant.
A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), under the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room (NCSSR), reported widespread voter inducement during the September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State. Despite significant security presence, the group observed numerous incidents of vote-buying across multiple polling units.
The CSOs, in a statement signed by Yunusa Z. Ya’u, Mimidoo Achakpa, and Franklin Oloniju, disclosed that voters were offered between ₦5,000 and ₦10,000 in exchange for their votes. Incidents were reported at locations such as PU08 and PU09 in Ward 2 of Owan-East Local Government Area (LGA), PU02 in Ward 2 of Etsako-West LGA, and other units in Egor, Oredo, and Owan-West LGAs.
In addition to cash payments, the report noted that food items, including bread, were used to influence voters' choices in some areas.
The NCSSR also acknowledged the arrest of two individuals suspected of being involved in vote trading at George Idah Primary School in Ward 2, Oredo LGA. The group commended the peaceful behavior of voters and urged them to remain calm as the election proceeded.
The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room comprises several organizations, including the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), CLEEN Foundation, YIAGA Africa, the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa), and other advocacy groups focused on good governance and electoral integrity.
These groups continue to monitor the election process closely while advocating for transparency and accountability in governance.
