Peter Obi has excoriated Nigerians who sell their votes, arguing that they are as corrupt as the politicians who induce them.

“Vote-buying is one of the greatest dangers confronting our democracy. It is never an act of kindness. It is a calculated investment in corruption. Those who buy votes do so with only one intention—to gain access to public funds,” Mr Obi explained in a post on Tuesday. “Those who sell their votes are not innocent either. When you exchange your ballot for money or material gain, you are not just selling a vote—you are selling your future.”

Mr Obi made the statement hours after he condemned politicians and political parties involved in buying votes as criminals and kidnappers.

He added that Nigerians allowing themselves to be induced by “are selling away the schools your children should attend, the hospitals that should save lives, and the jobs that should lift families out of poverty”.

“In truth, you mortgage your tomorrow for a token that can not sustain you today,” stated Mr Obi.

According to the politician, leaders who bribe voters to secure political office are looters, frustrating the country’s march toward development.

“By bribing voters today, they are purchasing a licence to plunder tomorrow. And when they get into office, the money meant for schools, hospitals, roads, and jobs is diverted into private pockets. Such people are not leaders—they are looters. Their actions rob our society of dignity, development, and even life itself,” the Labour party chieftain said.

Mr Obi said looters can only loot when voters give them the opportunity, urging Nigerians to elect leaders committed to building the country.

“The choice is ours. We either keep selling our votes and remain trapped in poverty and bad governance, or we rise above temporary gain and reclaim the future of our nation. Every Nigerian must take responsibility,” the former Anambra governor added. “Let us reject the politics of bribery and embrace the politics of service. Let us elect leaders who will build, not loot.”