The Chief of Staff to the Abia State Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, has raised concerns over the growing incidence of vote buying in Nigeria, describing it as a dangerous flaw in the nation’s democratic process and a threat to sustainable development.
Speaking at Government House, Umuahia, while addressing members of the Abia Progressive Elites, who called on him, Pastor Ajagba lamented that many citizens still fail to grasp the long-term consequences of exchanging their votes for short-term financial gains.
The Chief of Staff to the Governor charged youths across the State to take the lead in promoting good governance, voter education and responsible political participation.
He stressed that Youths must resist practices capable of undermining democratic institutions, pointing out that the are critical drivers of sustainable development and must position themselves as champions of accountability and transparency in governance.
The Chief of Staff commended the Abia Progressive Elites for their vision anchored on policy advocacy, good governance and the empowerment of youths and women, noting that their objectives align with the reform agenda of Governor Alex Otti’s administration.
He explained that the Governor’s resolve to rebuild Abia was driven by a determination to reposition the State on the path of accountability and development.
The Chief of Staff added that the present administration is laying a solid foundation for a new Abia through transparent and people-oriented governance.
He urged the group to intensify grassroots voter education, particularly on the dangers of vote buying and to remain steadfast in enlightening citizens on the benefits of good governance.
Earlier in their separate remarks, the leader of the delegation and founder of Abia Progressive Elites, Dr Alfred Lucky, and the group’s Inauguration Committee Chairman, Evangelist Jiteh Ezeh, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to advancing grassroots political awareness across the state.
They disclosed that the group is actively involved in sensitising citizens on the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise, leadership development and mentorship, as well as the training and empowerment of youths and women in entrepreneurial and vocational skills aimed at promoting self-reliance and economic inclusion.
The delegation commended Governor Alex Otti for what they described as transformational strides across various sectors of the State’s economy, noting that his reforms have restored public confidence in governance and rekindled hope among Abians.
They assured the government of their readiness to partner in mobilising citizens towards good governance and inclusive development.
