Ogonna W. Anunike1, Ifegwu, A. Nduka2,&Blessing Chimadika Anunike3
1Department of Mass Communication, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Nigeria
2Department of Public Administration, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Nigeria
3Department of Mass Communication, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State, Nigeria
Corresponding Author’s E-mail: ogoanunike@gmail.com
Abstract
This paper examined the influence of interpersonal communication on vote buying in the 2023 Anambra South senatorial election in Nigeria. Clientelism theory and the Two Step Flow Model of Communication formed the theoretical underpinning for the study. The research was a descriptive survey, data were collected through a multi-stage sampling technique and were analyzed using frequency tables and simple percentages. Results obtained show that senatorial candidates used interpersonal communication in vote canvassing and buying; incidentally the electorate perceived vote buying as good and acceptable aimed at assuaging their poverty. The effect is such that that the highest bidder coast home to victory. We hereby suggest more stringent electoral laws that are capable of handling the danger of vote buying, corporal punishment to perpetrators, massive sensitization of the general electorate on the ugly effect of vote buying by civil societies and lovers of democracy and a united force of the masses against manipulation by political gladiators
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