A former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, has urged Nigerian electorate not to sell their votes during the 2023 general election.

The former military leader said some politicians were encouraging the electorate to sell their votes.

He advised the voters not to listen to such politicians.

He said: “Your vote is your franchise. Some electorates are still selling their votes, and the politicians are still encouraging the selling and buying of votes.

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“I think this is a negative part that we are experiencing. I thought, indeed, Nigerians and all of us should put our heads together and all hands should be on deck to ensure that this phenomenon is brought to an end.

“I hope the electorates will bear in mind that it is their franchise to ensure that they vote people of calibre and their choice. And for God’s sake, nobody should go and sell his vote.”

Abdulsalami spoke at a media briefing as part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 62nd independence anniversary at his Uphill Residence in Minna, the Niger State capital, called for increased voter sensitisation and education.

The former Head of State also warned politicians against campaigns of calumny as campaigns take off across the country.

“As we go into the 2023 elections campaign, there should not be abusive words in our campaigns. But as much as possible indulge in campaigns of tolerance because I know each politician is trying to sell his manifesto or that of his party,” he said.