The Executive Chairman of Umunneochi Local Government Area, Mayor Sunny Afurobi, has raised the alarm over alleged clandestine activities by some politicians who are reportedly collecting voters’ cards and personal identification details from residents under false pretences.
In a special government announcement issued on Thursday, and personally signed by the Executive Mayor, Chief Sunny Afurobi expressed concern over what he described as “uncivilized, fraudulent, unethical and unwholesome” practices allegedly being carried out by selfish political actors within the local government.
According to the statement, some individuals have been accused of visiting residents’ homes at night or using town criers to summon people to designated locations, where they compel unsuspecting citizens to surrender their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), voter card numbers and National Identification Numbers (NINs).
These actions, the chairman said, are often accompanied by “empty promises of building skyscrapers” or inducements such as rice and cash.
Mayor Afurobi warned that such practices are illegal and violate established electoral rules and democratic norms, and urged residents to remain vigilant and to reject any attempt to manipulate or exploit them ahead of elections.
“I urge the good people of Umunneochi to disregard such brazen antics, as they are both illegal and against the rules of engagement,” the chairman stated. “You must resist any attempt by anybody acting alone or through agents, collaborators or hidden masters.”
The chairman stressed that political influence and popularity should be earned legitimately through performance, accountability and transparent engagement with the electorate, rather than through deceit or coercion.
“It is instructive to note that anyone claiming influence over others should do so in a legitimate way—through performance in public office and lawful solicitation of votes during elections,” he said.
Mayor Afurobi further reaffirmed the local government’s resolve to clamp down on all forms of electoral malpractice, including vote-buying, intimidation and pre-election manipulation, and cautioned residents against selling their votes, warning that such actions often result in long-term deprivation of democratic benefits.
“Our people must not be deceived into selling their votes for peanuts during elections, only to suffer heavy starvation of democratic dividends shortly afterwards,” he warned.
The chairman advised residents to safeguard their PVCs and personal information and to use them responsibly by voting for credible candidates with proven records of service and commitment to the collective interest of the people.
He also called on the public to report any attempt to collect voters’ cards or personal details to security agencies within the local government for “decisive action and appropriate sanctions.”
Residents were additionally encouraged to relay such information directly to his office for onward transmission to security authorities.
Mayor Afurobi concluded by calling for collective responsibility in building a better future for the people of Umunneochi.
“We must all work together to build a better future for Ndi Umunneochi and not dwell in deceit that comes to nothing every election period,” he said. “Enough is enough. Let us be properly guided.”
