Politics
IBBN Chief Warns Against Vote-Buying, Advocates Stronger Enforcement Measures
Joel Ajayi
FCT Coordinator of the Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN), Dr Emmanuel Afolabihas 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.
Politics
UCMPOO Names LG Coordinators to Drive Grassroots Mobilization for Otu, Odey
Cyril Ogar
The United Cross River Movement for Prince Otu and Peter Odey (UCMPOO) has announced the appointment of coordinators across local government areas and state constituencies in Cross River State as part of efforts to strengthen its grassroots structure.
In a statement issued by the UCMPOO Secretary-General, Victor Omaga Odoh, the movement said the appointments were aimed at expanding its grassroots presence and enhancing mobilisation ahead of the 2027 re-election bid of Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, and his deputy, Hon. Peter Odey.
According to the statement, the newly appointed coordinators are expected to coordinate the movement’s activities within their respective local government areas and constituencies, while strengthening engagement with communities and residents.
The appointed coordinators include Pastor Steve Atukamre for Obanliku; Hon. Augustine Ishong for Obudu; Hon. Chris Ogaidang for Bekwarra; Hon. Ega Mgbantul for Ogoja; Mr Mike Okwori for Yala I; and Hon. Godwin Igelle for Yala II.
Others are Elemi Eka for Abi; Hon. Charley Ikpi for Yakurr I; Butum Ubi Ofum for Yakurr II; Barr. Monday Akpere for Obubra I; Victor Okim Enang for Obubra II; Eric Ndifon for Etung I; Pastor Erune Erune for Etung II; Ogbuoba Margaret Okim for Ikom I; and Egbede Joshua for Ikom II.
The list further includes Hon. Harris Esor for Boki I; Mr James Dibang for Boki II; Hon. Mbora Mbora for Calabar Municipality; Comrade Inyang Udowong for Odukpani; Asuquo Adim for Bakassi; Michael Edem Bassey for Akpabuyo; Stephen Okon Effiong for Akamkpa I; Austine Ekuri for Akamkpa II; Chief Isaka Ekpenyong for Biase; Mike Archibong for Calabar South I; and Charles Etim for Calabar South II.
UCMPOO congratulated the newly appointed coordinators and urged them to discharge their responsibilities with dedication, commitment and a strong sense of service.
The movement said the appointments formed part of its broader efforts to establish an effective local government structure, deepen community engagement and coordinate grassroots activities across Cross River State.
It also called on the coordinators to work closely with stakeholders and communities within their respective areas to strengthen the movement’s organisational structure and outreach ahead of the 2027 political season.
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