Security operatives in Kaduna State have apprehended a man allegedly engaging in vote-buying, with over ₦25 million in cash reportedly intended to influence the outcome of today’s bye-elections.
The spokesperson for the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest in a statement.
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He identified the suspect as Shehu Patangi, who was picked up in the early hours of Saturday at a well-known hotel along Turunku Road in Kaduna metropolis.
According to Hassan, Patangi was allegedly coordinating the distribution of funds to sway voters in the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency bye-election.
During the operation, officers recovered a total of ₦25.963 million in cash, suspected to have been set aside for voter inducement.
Preliminary questioning revealed that the suspect admitted to the offence and pleaded for leniency.
The Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, commended the efforts of sister security agencies for their support and effective collaboration in the operation.
He also issued a stern warning that no individual, irrespective of social standing, would be spared if caught attempting to compromise the integrity of the polls.
Muhammad further assured the public of the command’s readiness to provide comprehensive security throughout the election period.
He urged citizens to come out and cast their votes peacefully, stressing that they should exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.
