The [Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independent_National_Electoral_Commission) announced it will keep a tight watch on how candidates spend money during the 2027 general election, and said anyone caught buying votes will face prosecution. This declaration was delivered on Friday by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Anambra State, Dr Queen Elizabeth Agwu, during a gathering of party leaders, candidates, community representatives and media personnel.
**What did the REC say about past election conduct?**
She warned against a repeat of the controversies that marred the 2025 Anambra governorship race, stating that INEC will not tolerate any form of defamation or personal attacks. Agwu emphasized that candidates should focus on presenting their policy plans to voters, regardless of personal rumours or family matters.
**How will vote‑buying be addressed?**
The REC pledged to monitor any attempts at vote‑buying and urged the public to report such incidents. “I have never seen a case myself, but anyone who spots it should inform us,” she said. She appealed to candidates to redirect funds toward genuine campaign activities, noting that vote‑buying is carried out by political parties, not by INEC or the police, and that blaming the commission is misplaced.
**What measures are in place to prevent ballot‑box theft?**
Agwu assured that the commission is fully prepared for the 2027 poll and that any stolen ballot boxes would be rendered useless by existing technology. She cautioned parties against employing thugs, reminding them that election success requires proper planning and voter engagement, not intimidation.
**When is the election and what preparations have been made?**
With 97 days remaining until the vote, the REC said INEC staff have been instructed not to accept money from politicians and that any attempts to bribe staff for results will be prosecuted. She reiterated that the upcoming election will be free of glitches, citing the smooth conduct of the recent Anambra governorship election as evidence.
**What is the stance on reporting misconduct?**
The commission will act against anyone who tries to manipulate result sheets or engage in other forms of fraud. Agwu concluded that the era of snatching ballot boxes is over, thanks to the technology now in place.
For further details on the upcoming poll, see the page on the [2027 Nigerian general election](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2027_Nigerian_general_election). Information on the illegal practice of [vote buying](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vote_buying) is also available for reference.