Obla Urges Idoma Voters to Stop Collecting Money Before Elections

Chief Godwin Obla, SAN, has publicly urged the people of Idoma land to stop collecting money from politicians before voting, insisting that electoral choices should be based on competence, performance and the ability to deliver meaningful development. Speaking at the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital in Otukpo on Saturday, Obla warned that the practice of demanding cash or gifts from candidates erodes democratic values and undermines the very purpose of elections. His message resonates at a time when Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, and voters across the country are being reminded of their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future.

Why the Call to Stop Collecting Money Matters

The practice of soliciting money from candidates, often termed “vote buying,” has long plagued Nigerian elections. It creates a cycle where politicians feel obligated to reward benefactors, leading to patronage politics that distracts from policy‑driven governance. Obla’s appeal is not merely rhetorical; it addresses a systemic issue that has tangible consequences for development, accountability and public trust.

When voters accept money in exchange for votes, they may feel compelled to support a candidate regardless of his or her track record. This compromises the electorate’s ability to evaluate candidates on merit, such as their record on infrastructure, education, health and job creation. By urging Idoma citizens to stop collecting money, Obla is championing a shift toward issue‑based voting that can drive real change.

Historical Context of Vote Buying in Nigeria

Vote buying is not a new phenomenon in Nigeria. Historically, it has been linked to the patron‑client relationships that characterised the First and Second Republics. Over the decades, various electoral reforms, including the 2010 Electoral Act and the establishment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), have sought to curb the practice, yet it persists, especially in rural constituencies where economic hardship makes cash incentives alluring.

In the 2015 and 2019 elections, several reports highlighted the prevalence of cash distribution, food items and even mobile phones as inducements. While the 2023 elections saw a modest decline due to stricter monitoring, the 2026 pre‑election period revealed that the problem remains entrenched, particularly in parts of Benue State where agriculture dominates and cash flow is limited.

Obla’s Message at FUHSTHO: A Call for Civic Responsibility

Addressing a crowd of students, community leaders and ordinary voters at the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital (FUHSTHO), Obla emphasized that the right to vote is a sacred trust. He said, “When you accept money from a candidate, you are effectively handing over your power to that individual. Your vote should be a reflection of your aspirations, not a transaction.”

Obla, a seasoned Senior Advocate of Nigeria, drew on his legal background to explain that vote buying contravenes the spirit of the Constitution, which guarantees free and fair elections. He urged the audience to consider the long‑term impact of their choices, reminding them that development projects—roads, schools, hospitals—are best delivered by leaders who are chosen for competence, not for the size of the envelope they can offer.

Practical Steps for Voters to Resist Vote Buying

Obla did not stop at moral exhortation; he offered concrete steps for citizens who wish to resist the lure of money:

• Educate yourself on candidates’ track records: Review past performance, public statements and development plans.
• Engage in community dialogues: Attend town hall meetings and ask direct questions about policy priorities.
• Report illicit offers: Use INEC’s hotline or local civic groups to flag attempts at vote buying.
• Support transparent campaigns: Back candidates who publish clear financial disclosures and development agendas.

These steps empower voters to make informed choices while creating a deterrent for politicians who rely on cash incentives.

Impact on the 2027 Election Landscape

As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, the stakes are high. The country faces challenges ranging from inflationary pressures to security concerns in the North-East. Voters who reject money‑driven politics can compel parties to field candidates with genuine expertise in tackling these issues.

Political analysts suggest that a shift away from vote buying could lead to more competitive primaries, where internal party democracy becomes the primary battleground. This, in turn, may encourage parties to develop robust policy platforms, fostering a healthier democratic environment.

Regional Perspectives: Lessons from Across Africa

While Obla’s appeal is rooted in Idoma land, the message echoes across the continent. In Ghana, the 2024 elections saw civil society groups launch successful campaigns against vote buying, resulting in a noticeable decline in cash‑handouts. South Africa’s 2026 municipal elections also highlighted the role of voter education in curbing patronage politics.

These examples illustrate that collective action—when citizens, NGOs and electoral bodies work together—can reshape the political culture. Nigeria’s diverse electorate can draw inspiration from these regional successes, adapting strategies that fit local realities.

Role of Media and Civil Society

Media outlets and civil society organisations play a pivotal role in amplifying Obla’s message. Investigative journalism can expose illicit cash flows, while NGOs can conduct voter education workshops. Social media platforms, when used responsibly, can spread awareness quickly, especially among the youth who constitute a significant portion of the electorate.

In Benue State, local radio stations have already begun airing programmes that discuss the dangers of vote buying, featuring interviews with legal experts and community elders. Such initiatives complement Obla’s on‑the‑ground advocacy, creating a multi‑pronged approach to electoral reform.

FAQ

1. What does “stop collecting money” mean in the context of elections? It refers to the practice of refusing cash, gifts or any material inducement from political candidates in exchange for votes.
2. Is vote buying illegal in Nigeria? While specific statutes target bribery and corruption, vote buying is considered a violation of the principles of free and fair elections enshrined in the Constitution and the Electoral Act.
3. How can I report an attempt to buy my vote? Voters can call INEC’s dedicated hotline (0800‑ELECT‑NOW) or contact local civil society groups that monitor electoral integrity.

Conclusion: A Vote for Integrity

Chief Godwin Obla’s call to stop collecting money is more than a plea; it is a blueprint for a more accountable and development‑focused Nigeria. By refusing to be swayed by short‑term financial gain, Idoma voters—and indeed all Nigerians—can demand leaders who are judged on competence, performance and the promise of tangible progress.

As the 2027 elections approach, the collective decision to reject vote buying could herald a new era of democratic maturity, where the ballot box truly reflects the aspirations of the people rather than the pockets of politicians.

For further details, see the original report by Daily Post Nigeria.

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