Stop using money to buy votes, INEC warns politicians

Ahead of the October 20 governorship election in Ondo State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the weekend warned politicians to desist from using money to get votes from the electorate.
The electoral body said it is a serious offence for the electorate to sell their voter’s cards or votes during the election.
Speaking at a voter-education sensitisation forum in Akure, the Akure South Local Government Electoral Officer, Mr. Surajudeen Rahman, said INEC is determined to conduct a free and fair poll by ensuring that the people’s votes count.
He said: “Avoid election-rigging, fraud and confusion. Don’t bribe or accept bribe during the poll. It’s a crime. Don’t vote more than once. It’s an offence to do so. Don’t sell your voter’s cards. Don’t sell your votes. Don’t sell your right.”
Rahman urged politicians to embrace peace during and after the election, stressing that INEC could only conduct a credible poll when politicians abide by the rules.
His words: “Let us work for the peace of the state. Let’s walk on the path of peace. Let us talk peace. Let’s promote a peaceful election. INEC is putting all its cards face up on the table. We will keep our affairs open and transparent.
“Election day is not a day to settle old or fresh scores. Election is about choosing a candidate of our choice. We appeal to you to allow our workers do their work at the polling units. We must allow the peace that prevails on the election day prevail after the announcement of the results.
“Respect and support freedom of opinion and expression. Give to others as much freedom as you want for yourself. Enjoy your freedom to vote and allow others do the same. After voting, wait for the final result of the election. INEC is the only body responsible for announcing the final results.”

Rahman enjoined the electorate to come out en masse on the election day and vote for the candidates of their choice.