Osun Election: HURIWA demands probe, prosecution of alleged vote-buying financiers

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) is demanding a thorough investigation and prosecution of individuals allegedly financing and organizing vote-buying during the Osun State governorship election. The rights group expressed grave concern over the widespread nature of alleged vote-buying, warning that such practices pose a significant threat to the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process and its democratic foundations.

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We warned before now that vote buying was becoming a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy. What we have witnessed in Osun has elevated that menace to another level and should serve as a wake-up call to every institution responsible for protecting the sanctity of the ballot.

HURIWA specifically pointed fingers at supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Accord Party, claiming they offered voters between N10,000 and N20,000 for their votes. The organization condemned this alleged practice as "despicable and reprehensible," while also criticizing the perceived inability of law enforcement agencies to effectively curb the issue.

Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, National Coordinator of HURIWA, stated that vote-buying has evolved beyond a mere electoral offense into a sophisticated political enterprise. He emphasized that the situation in Osun has escalated the menace, serving as a critical wake-up call for all institutions tasked with safeguarding the electoral system. HURIWA argues that vote-buying distorts political competition and infringes upon voters' freedom of choice, labeling it "electoral terrorism against constitutional democracy."

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When a mandate is purchased, governance becomes an investment recovery project. The politician who spends billions buying votes will naturally seek ways of recovering that money from the public treasury.

The group further warned that politicians who spend vast sums to secure electoral mandates are likely to seek ways to recoup their investments through public resources, leading to corrupt governance. HURIWA also acknowledged that widespread poverty can make vulnerable citizens susceptible to financial inducements. However, the organization stressed that the primary responsibility lies with political actors and financiers, not economically desperate voters.

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Consequently, HURIWA urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and various security agencies to investigate alleged vote-buying networks. The focus, HURIWA insists, should be on financiers, organizers, and political beneficiaries, rather than solely on individual voters.

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