Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has cautioned Nigerians against selling their votes, describing the practice as a major threat to the nation’s democracy.

In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, the former Anambra State governor said vote-buying is not an act of generosity but a “calculated investment in corruption” by politicians who want unhindered access to public funds.

“Those who buy votes do so with only one aim, to capture public resources,” Obi said. “By bribing voters today, they are essentially purchasing a licence to loot tomorrow. The money earmarked for schools, hospitals, roads, and jobs is diverted into private pockets once they assume office.”

He argued that both politicians who engage in vote-buying and citizens who sell their ballots share responsibility for undermining the country’s democratic process.

“When you trade your ballot for cash or material gifts, you are not merely giving up a vote, you are mortgaging your future,” Obi stated. “You are surrendering the education your children deserve, the healthcare that saves lives, and the jobs that could lift families out of poverty. It is a short-term token that sacrifices long-term progress.”

Obi added that the persistence of vote-buying underscores the inherent worth of the ballot, urging Nigerians to recognize that “if your vote had no value, nobody would be desperate to pay for it.”

According to him, the true strength of democracy lies not in money exchanged during elections but in the resolve of citizens to elect leaders committed to public service rather than corruption.

He called on Nigerians to reject inducements, resist vote-buying, and participate actively in building a credible democratic system.