In a candid revelation, former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa claimed that in Nigeria, politicians with deep pockets can essentially buy their way to electoral victory. During an appearance on Edmund Obilo’s State Affairs political podcast, Udenwa stated that financial power allows politicians to influence not only the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) but also law enforcement agencies like the police and the army.
“There are no longer questions about a politician’s character or background. All that matters is the amount of money you bring to the table,” Udenwa said. He added, “You can buy everybody. Elections in Nigeria have turned into a process of buying your way through.”
Udenwa lamented that Nigerians no longer scrutinize the qualifications and integrity of candidates. “If you say vote for me, I am no longer asking what you can do? What are your antecedents? What type of character do you have? We don’t ask such questions again.”
The ex-governor went further to point out that the country’s electoral system needs reform to prevent this corrupt practice, stressing that the only way to see real change is by curbing the influence of money in politics.
Turning to internal party issues, Udenwa also weighed in on the ongoing crisis within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), placing the blame squarely on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
He accused the APC of fomenting discord within the PDP, claiming that “external hands” are involved in destabilizing the opposition party.
“There are external hands trying to destroy the PDP through internal sources. We are still battling the problem, and I believe PDP will not be destroyed,” Udenwa said. Despite the internal strife, he remained optimistic about the party’s future, though he refrained from naming those allegedly involved.