Police Nab Political Thugs And Party Loyalists Over Vote Buying, Seize Cash And Evidence

Police Nab Political Thugs And Party Loyalists Over Vote Buying, Seize Cash And Evidence

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of suspected political thugs and individuals involved in vote buying during the Edo state governorship election.

In a statement issued on September 21, police spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi revealed that coordinated raids were carried out by officers on September 20, 2024, around 7:00 PM. The raids targeted identified hotspots, leading to the apprehension of several suspects.

Among those arrested were Emotingham Godspower (25) and Farawei Isaac (27), both residents of Ufunama community in Ovia South West LGA. The suspects, reportedly linked to a larger operation run by figures identified as “Atiku” and “the boss,” were taken into custody at So Cash guest house in Ekpoma. Authorities recovered a significant amount of cash and incriminating materials, including:

• A voter list with associated monetary values
• Pre-filled ballot papers
• Counterfeit identification cards

Additionally, six other individuals, including Suleiman Abdurahim and Fatima Yakubu, were arrested at Aibotse Secondary School near Meremu Hotel in Auchi for vote-buying activities. The group was found with large sums of money, a cache of weapons, and detailed plans for voter intimidation.

In a further twist, Adejobi disclosed the arrest of a man posing as a journalist, allegedly working for a major Nigerian television station. This highlights the extensive reach of the criminal network.

“Our team’s strategic planning and swift action have dealt a severe blow to efforts aimed at undermining the integrity of this election,” Adejobi stated, adding that investigations remain ongoing, with more updates to follow.