The 2025 Anambra State governorship election took a dramatic turn on Saturday, November 8, as political agents distribute Gala sausages, malt drinks and money to voters at polling units.
The act, which many Nigerians described as “vote-buying in snack form,” has generated a wave of online mockery and anger.
Social media platforms were flooded with sarcastic remarks such as, “Gala and malt today, four years of fasting tomorrow,” while others quipped, “Na democracy or break time snack?”
Commenters lamented how hunger and poverty have become tools for political manipulation, turning elections into cheap trading grounds for citizens’ future.
Voters were seen accepting the refreshments on a queue as they were been asked to be identified by their voters card.
Observers expressed frustration that democracy in Nigeria had been reduced to what one user called “a budget-friendly transaction.”
Voting continues amid BVAS glitches and low turnout
Voting is ongoing across Anambra’s 5,720 polling units, with a total of 16 candidates contesting for the governorship seat.
Incumbent Governor Charles Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) is seeking a second term, facing stiff competition from Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other contenders.
Despite early arrival of materials in some areas, technical glitches with the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) affected voter accreditation in several polling stations.
In communities such as Ekwulummiri, voters complained about long delays and repeated device malfunctions.
Turnout appeared lower than in previous elections, as residents cited frustration with governance and lack of faith in the process.
Security presence, vote-buying allegations, and awaited results
Security agents maintained visible presence across major towns, with vehicular movement restricted to ensure a peaceful voting environment.
The atmosphere remained calm in most areas, although reports of voter intimidation and subtle vote-buying persisted.
Governor Soludo, after casting his vote, expressed confidence in his party’s performance but accused opposition elements of planning to rig the results.
His main challenger, Nicholas Ukachukwu, alleged widespread vote manipulation, urging INEC to ensure transparency in the collation process.
Former governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also cast his vote in his hometown.
As of late afternoon, voting and counting were still underway, with official results expected to be announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after collation.
Watch the video below…
Gala and malt for voters at the ongoing governorship election Anambra State🙆♂️😳 pic.twitter.com/m0IhFRXVsc
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) November 8, 2025