ADC Slams Anambra Election as “Cash-and-Carry Democracy,” Warns of 2027 Danger

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticized the conduct of the Anambra 2025 gubernatorial election, describing it as a “cash-and-carry democracy” that has eroded the foundation of credible elections in Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that the election was heavily compromised by financial inducements and vote-buying, which it said transformed the democratic process into a transactional affair. The ADC noted that what took place in Anambra was less an election and more a cash-driven spectacle, undermining citizens’ faith in the electoral system.

“The just concluded election,” the statement read, “was characterized by open distribution of money at polling units, with bundles of naira exchanged in full public view. This brazen violation of the Electoral Act represents not only a moral failure but also a systemic collapse of the mechanisms meant to safeguard our democracy.”

Concerns Over Institutional Silence and Electoral Integrity

The ADC expressed grave concern over the apparent silence and inaction of institutions tasked with upholding electoral integrity. It accused both security operatives and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of failing to act decisively in the face of widespread irregularities.

According to the statement, reports of voter harassment and inducement were rampant, yet law enforcement agencies remained passive. “The silence of security agencies and the visible inaction of INEC officials bordered on collusion,” the ADC said. “It is deeply troubling that those entrusted with protecting the sanctity of our votes chose instead to look away as the process was hijacked by money and influence.”

The party warned that such lapses, if allowed to persist, could set a dangerous precedent ahead of the 2027 general elections. It cautioned that Nigeria risks entrenching a culture where leadership is determined by wealth rather than integrity or service to the people.

ADC Reaffirms Commitment to Democratic Ideals

Despite its disappointment, the ADC reaffirmed its dedication to promoting genuine democracy and credible leadership in Nigeria. The party emphasized that elections should be platforms for ideas, inclusion, and accountability — not marketplaces for political transactions.

Mallam Abdullahi reiterated that the ADC will continue to champion reforms that strengthen electoral institutions and ensure that public office is earned through merit and service. “Our democracy cannot thrive on the crude exchange of cash for votes,” he said. “It must rest on integrity, transparency, and the trust of the Nigerian people.”

The ADC called on citizens, civil society organizations, and the international community to remain vigilant and to demand accountability from both electoral bodies and political actors as Nigeria approaches future elections.