Osun election: ICPC launches crackdown on electoral bribery, stations agents in all 30 local government areas

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission will dispatch its operatives to all 30 local government areas in the state for the upcoming August 15 governorship poll, according to the Commission's plans.

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This revelation was made by Yusuf Olatunji, the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner for Osun State, during an interaction with journalists at a street rally against vote-buying organized by the Commission in Osogbo on Thursday.

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The rally, which drew participation from corps members, staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission, and ICPC members, among others, featured speakers campaigning against vote-buying in three major languages spoken in the country.

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The procession began at Igbona Market in Osogbo, proceeded through the Old Garage to Olaiya Area, and concluded at Alekuwodo Market in Osogbo, distributing fliers with information on the negative implications of vote-buying to residents along the way.

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Following the rally, Olatunji addressed journalists, explaining that the event aimed to emphasize the Commission's stance against vote trading and inform the public that vote-buying is a punishable offense under Nigerian law.

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Olatunji emphasized that the ICPC will not tolerate vote-buying or selling and will arrest and prosecute anyone found guilty, while also urging voters not to encourage such practices by refusing to accept money or other incentives in exchange for their votes.

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The Commission has made arrangements to deploy personnel to all 30 local governments to monitor the election and prevent vote-buying, with Olatunji warning that both the giver and receiver of bribes will face punishment.

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Olatunji cautioned the electorate against compromising the integrity of the electoral process by engaging in or condoning electoral corruption, particularly vote-buying and vote-selling, which can have far-reaching consequences for the state's governance and development.

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He noted that while vote-buying may offer temporary financial gains, it ultimately undermines democracy, leading to poor governance, unfulfilled promises, inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, unemployment, and declining public trust in democratic institutions.

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Olatunji stressed that the short-term benefits of selling one's vote are greatly outweighed by the long-term costs of electing ineffective leaders, which can deprive citizens of essential services like quality education, healthcare, good roads, employment opportunities, and sustainable development.

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The upcoming election features 14 political parties fielding candidates, including incumbent governor Ademola Adeleke, who is seeking reelection on the platform of the Accord Party.