By MOROMOKE AKANJI

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has warned against vote buying and selling ahead of the Aug. 15 Osun governorship election.

The commission said anyone caught engaging in the act would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The ICPC Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner in Osun, Mr Yusuf Olatunji, gave the warning during an awareness rally against vote buying and selling on Thursday in Osogbo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the rally had as its theme: “My Vote, My Future: Reject Vote Buying, Protect Democracy.”

Olatunji said the commission would deploy adequate personnel across the 30 local government areas of the state to monitor and curb the practice.

He urged the electorate to recognise the value of their votes and resist any attempt to trade them for temporary gains.

“To every voter in Osun, I urge you to reject any attempt to influence your choice through cash, gifts, food items, or any form of inducement.

“Let your vote reflect your conscience and your vision for a better state.

“Your votes are priceless, our democracy is sacred, and our future must never be sold.

“As we prepare for the forthcoming governorship election, every eligible voter has a responsibility that goes beyond casting a ballot.

We must protect the integrity of our electoral process by rejecting all forms of electoral corruption, especially vote buying and selling,” he said.

Olatunji noted that while vote trading might offer temporary financial relief, it has long-term negative consequences for governance and development.

“When votes become commodities, leadership becomes a transaction rather than a mandate.

“The consequences are evident: poor governance, unfulfilled promises, inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, unemployment, and declining public confidence in democratic institutions,” he said.

He added that the money collected for votes may be spent within days, but the impact of electing the wrong leaders could last for years.

“No amount of money is worth sacrificing quality education, better healthcare, good roads, employment opportunities, and sustainable development,” he said.

“Olatunji reaffirmed the ICPC’s commitment to combating corruption through public enlightenment, stakeholder collaboration, and sustained advocacy.

“Prevention is more effective than prosecution. This rally is part of efforts to educate citizens before the election rather than lament the consequences afterward,” he said.

He commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, faith-based organisations, the media, and other stakeholders for their commitment to credible elections in the state.

Olatunji also urged political parties and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law.

“Elections should be contests of ideas, policies, competence, and character—not contests of financial inducement,” he said. (NAN)

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