The Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), Anambra State branch, has described the increasing commercialisation and monetisation of the electoral process as one of the greatest threats to democracy and democratic evolution in Nigeria.

The organization made this known during its half-year press briefing held in Awka on Tuesday.

In a press statement signed by Comrades Vincent Ezekwueme AMBP-UN, Chidi Mbah, Damian Ogudike, flanked by Peter Oke, Amb. Amah, Onyeka Obi, Don Williams Nwarunta and others, and tagged “Let us play politics of morality,” CLO expressed concern that elections are no longer determined by popularity, acceptability, character, competence and capacity.

“It is very unfortunate, detestable and despicable that now money power determines who wins election rather than popularity, acceptability, character, competence, conscience and capacity,” the statement read.

CLO appealed to citizens to resist vote buying and selling, and to vote with their conscience and conviction, devoid of monetary inducement, tribal, religious or clan cleavages.

According to the group, the safeguard, protection and defence of Nigeria’s hard-won democracy remains a collective responsibility that must be taken seriously by all stakeholders.

“For us to get it right, we must play politics of justice, equity, good conscience, patriotism and morality by voting people of impeccable character and integrity with unwavering and overarching commitment to the interest and welfare of the people,” CLO posited.

The organization also called on security agencies to be proactive during elections by arresting and prosecuting anyone found sharing or receiving bribes.

CLO noted that until the influence of money is removed from politics, Nigeria’s democratic institutions will continue to produce leaders who serve personal interests rather than the public good.

We appeal to citizens to come out en masse to cast their votes, protect and defend their votes. CLO reiterates its appeal to INEC extend Continuous Voters Registration exercise and create additional Electoral Wards and polling Units in Anambra State.