“If Your Husband Won’t Allow You to Vote APC, Leave the Marriage, I’ll Pay Your Bride Price” — Yobe APC Chairman

 The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yobe State has sparked controversy following a reported appeal to women to support the party at the polls, including a remark that women whose husbands prevent them from voting for the APC should consider leaving their marriages.

The chairman was quoted as saying: “If your husband won’t allow you to vote APC, leave the marriage. I will pay your bride price and marry you.”

The comment has generated reactions over the extent to which political mobilisation should influence personal and family relationships.

The remarks have renewed discussion about the increasingly intense nature of political mobilisation as parties prepare for future elections.

While political parties are entitled to campaign for votes and encourage supporters to participate in elections, commentators argue that political messaging should respect personal choices, family relationships and the right of every eligible voter to make an independent decision at the ballot box.

Critics of the statement said political leaders should exercise caution in their public remarks, particularly when addressing sensitive issues involving marriage and family relationships.

They argued that political competition should focus primarily on policies, governance records, development programmes and the interests of voters rather than personal pressure or confrontational rhetoric.

The controversy also highlights the importance of protecting voters’ freedom to choose their preferred candidates and political parties without intimidation or coercion.

As political activities intensify, observers have urged party leaders and supporters to promote peaceful participation and respect differing political opinions, stressing that democratic elections ultimately depend on the free choice of citizens.

The Yobe APC chairman’s reported comments have therefore become another point of discussion over the tone and tactics of political campaigns and the need for responsible political communication ahead of forthcoming elections.