Former Imo State Governor, Achike Udenwa, has made a startling revelation about Nigeria’s electoral system, stating that politicians with deep pockets can manipulate the process to secure victory.
Speaking on Edmund Obilo’s State Affairs political podcast, Udenwa lamented that elections in Nigeria have become transactional, with money playing a dominant role over merit or public service credentials.
He expressed concern that voters no longer scrutinize the background or integrity of candidates before supporting them.
“Unfortunately, our society has degenerated to a point where when someone says, ‘Vote for me,’ we no longer ask about their competence, character, or track record. These questions have become secondary. And, of course, even if I don’t vote for you, with the right amount of money, you can buy your way through,” he said.
When asked if politicians could influence electoral bodies and security agencies, he responded bluntly, “You can buy everybody.”
Udenwa described the current electoral landscape as one where wealth determines political outcomes, emphasizing the need for urgent reforms to prevent democracy from being hijacked by financial influence.
APC Meddling in PDP Affairs, Says Udenwa
Addressing the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Udenwa, a member of the party’s Board of Trustees, accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of fueling internal discord within the opposition.
While acknowledging the PDP’s internal challenges, he insisted that external interference has worsened the situation.
“There are external forces working to destabilize the PDP from within. We are still addressing these issues, and I strongly believe that PDP will not be destroyed,” he asserted.
Although Udenwa refrained from naming specific individuals allegedly used by the APC to disrupt the PDP, he maintained that the ruling party’s involvement in the crisis is evident.
