The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says it will monitor the conduct of politicians in Kogi, especially to guard against vote-buying.

Kogi ICPC office head Ulu Okoro-James stated this in an interview in Lokoja.

”The presidential and national assembly elections holding on Saturday are of paramount importance to the entire nation. Any dubious act that can compromise its success will not be tolerated,” Mr Okoro-James. “ICPC as an anti-corruption commission, will not tolerate any dubious acts. Our men are everywhere here in Kogi.” 

The ICPC official added, “They are strategically placed with (an) eagle eye to monitor politicians, INEC officials and other stakeholders. I want the people of Kogi to know that it is not going to be business as usual. We are out to ensure that three is any iota of vote-buying or vote-selling here in Kogi. The election has to be free and fair. We are going to work with other security agencies to stop such acts.”

Mr Okoro-James advised the electorate not to allow anybody to lure them into selling their vote because both would face the same sanction spelt out in the Electoral Act.

The anti-graft official described the synergy between the 17 security operatives operating in the state as “apt” and “very encouraging” in tackling security matters in Kogi.

Mr Okoro-James expressed the hope that the election in Kogi would be very peaceful and successful in giving room for meaningful development. 

(NAN)