By Correspondent in Minna.
As the countdown to the 2027 general elections begins, a non-partisan political movement, The New Nigeria Movement (TNNM), has pledged to champion a new civic culture that will encourage Nigerians to vote according to conscience rather than monetary inducement.
Speaking at the unveiling of the group in Minna, Niger State, at the weekend, the National Coordinator, Dr. Kenneth Ibuchi, said the movement is determined to ensure that the coming elections are not only free and fair but also credible, with a strong campaign to eliminate vote buying and selling.
According to him, TNNM will push for accountable leadership and citizen-driven advocacy to reshape Nigeria’s electoral system.
Dr. Ibuchi lamented that vote trading has become a recurring menace across local, state, and federal elections, stressing that voters must change their mindset.
“This buying and selling of votes has nothing to do with our leaders but with our mindset as voters. We need to sensitise ourselves to stop carrying the ‘merchandise mentality.’ If voters refuse to sell, then there will be nothing for politicians to buy,” he said.
He added that the group will launch grassroots sensitization campaigns across local governments and communities to empower voters to reject inducements and demand accountability from leaders.
Also speaking, Murtala Haliru Dantoro, former Director General,Minna Airport City and Babanna Free Trade Zone, described vote buying as “an insidious cancer on Nigeria’s electoral system.”
“Paying for votes turns a sacred civic duty into a short-term transaction and strips communities of long-term development. Leaders who buy their way into office will always serve corrupt interests, not the people. Such leaders will neglect schools, hospitals, and infrastructure while enriching themselves,” he warned.
Our correspondent reports that the unveiling attracted leaders of political parties, civil society organisations, and community members, all of whom were urged to rise in defence of the dignity of their votes.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
