The Obidient Movement has decried the widespread vote-buying that allegedly marred Saturday’s by-elections across the country, warning that Nigeria’s democracy risks being reduced to an “open market” where political power is auctioned to the highest bidder.

In a strongly worded statement signed by its National Coordinator, Dr. Yanusa Tanko, the movement said the practice of trading votes for money not only undermines good governance but also mortgages the future of millions of Nigerians.

“Elections are not supposed to be an auction block for politicians who loot our national treasury,” Tanko said. “Until we collectively say no to vote selling and buying, those who plunder our commonwealth will continue to rule us without fear of reprimand.”

Quoting Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, Tanko likened vote buyers to armed robbers and kidnappers, arguing that they merely use stolen funds to secure access to the treasury. He added that voters who sell their ballots are effectively selling off schools, equipment, systems, hospitals, and roads that should serve their communities.

The group urged Nigerians to reject inducements in future elections, warning that “by trading our votes for peanuts, we are mortgaging the future of our children to a life of joblessness, hunger, and despair.” (The Guardian)