Dr Emmanuel Afolabi, FCT Coordinator of the Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN), has decried the rising incidence of vote-buying during elections.
He made the observation in an interview on Wednesday in Abuja saying there is need for stiffer penalties against offenders to safeguard the integrity the country’s electoral process.
Afolabi appealed to the government to impose stringent penalties on individuals caught buying or selling votes during elections, stressing that proper enforcement would deter the practice.
“There should be stiff penalties for anyone caught buying or selling votes. If offenders are properly punished, this attitude will stop,” he said.
He explained that IBBN organizes monthly football tournaments as part of its civic engagement strategy, noting that the Kuje Area Council football pitch in Abuja hosted the second edition this year.
Expressing satisfaction with the growing participation and public response to the competition.
According to him, the rising turnout shows that citizens are embracing IBBN’s message of promoting a “new breed without greed” in leadership.
“ The tournament is strategically designed to mobilise citizens and sensitise them on their civic responsibilities ahead of the election period.
“This is the right time for us to start engaging the people so they will understand what is expected of them during the elections,” he said.
The coordinator also announced that the group would hold a major anti–vote-buying programme, inviting journalists, politicians, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and other stakeholders.
He emphasised that strict enforcement of electoral laws would restore credibility to country elections and ensure that winners truly emerge through the people’s mandate.
On drug abuse among youths, Afolabi attributed the trend to attempts by some young people to gain artificial confidence, calling for proper orientation and accountability.
Dr. Isaac Chinagorom, a member of IBBN emphasises the importance of unity and youth inclusiveness in governance, urging young Nigerians to actively shape the nation’s future despite declining trust in the system.
He also addressed insecurity, noting that while the FCT remains relatively safe, other regions face serious challenges, and citizens must collaborate with authorities by reporting threats.
Amos James, IBBN Kuje Area Council Coordinator, added that by June this year, it will be two years since their inauguration.
“ Over this period, we have consistently created awareness about credible elections, educating citizens on the dangers of vote-buying and encouraging support for candidates with integrity,” he said.
