LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Several Ebonyi stakeholders have applauded the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) new cashless policy, claiming it significantly decreased vote buying and selling, especially during the Saturday presidential and national assembly elections.
In separate interviews with News Agency Of Nigeria (NAN) on 26 February in Abakaliki, the State capital, stakeholders expressed their approval of the policy.
Political analyst Mr. Sylvester Madu noted that although the policy had a huge impact on the previous elections, he is concerned about the hardship the program is causing the general population.
He claimed that as a result of the development, the amount of vote buying had significantly decreased.
“It is difficult anyway, because we have not gone cashless. But the aim is playing out. It was awesome during Saturday’s poll. No vote buying or selling,” Madu said.
Mr. Paul Ejike, a Lawyer, praised INEC for conducting the elections successfully and urged improvement, particularly in the issue of ballot paper shortage.
“Yes, I am happy the nation’s political system is taking shape. We are no longer talking about vote buying. Of course, it was obvious during the Feb. 25 poll,” Ejike said.
Domestic observer Ms. Nkechi Livingstone applauded the polls as well and noted the improvement of Nigeria’s electoral system.
“Even though the citizens are experiencing difficulties with the cashless policy, the good aspect is that it actually played a big role during Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly elections.
“We are moving forward in our electoral system. I believe the country will also benefit from the positive gains associated with the policy,” she said.
Ex-ambassador of Nigeria to South Korea, Mr. Alex Nwofe, praised INEC for how the election was handled.
Nwofe, however, urged the electoral authority to act quickly to address the issue of a lack of ballots, as well as other associated issues, such as the officials’ tardiness in reporting to the polling places.
“I believe Nigeria is getting it right in terms of election,” he said.