The ongoing governorship election in Anambra State has again revived the conversation around money politics, with Yunusa Tanko insisting that financial inducement is shaping voter decisions in several areas.
Tanko, a prominent figure within the Obidient Movement, spoke in Nnewi on Saturday, where he said reports reaching him indicate that candidates and their supporters are openly offering cash to sway choices at the polling areas.
According to him, the trend weakens the integrity of the poll and makes voters prioritise instant gain instead of merit or leadership quality.
His words reflect wider concern around the day’s process as poverty is making many residents vulnerable, and Tanko believes politicians exploit that economic pressure.
He stated that Labour Party will not participate in the culture of exchanging money for ballots, emphasising that the movement does not even have the financial capacity to do so and even if it did, would still reject such tactics.
Tanko presented the position as a moral line, adding that refusing to purchase votes is part of how the movement intends to prove that elections can be conducted without manipulating the electorate through money.
He also linked his stance to the political values of Peter Obi, whom he insists will not engage in that practice.
Obi, according to him, has already publicly endorsed LP candidate George Moghalu, but Tanko stressed that the final decision remains with the people of Anambra.
Tanko said the group had spread its coordinators across local governments for election–day monitoring purposes, but insisted that the real outcome will depend on whether citizens choose leaders freely instead of trading their vote.
He described the situation as a learning moment for Nigerians, saying this period will help the country see how power shifts when cash becomes the primary tool of campaigning.