Vote Buying Foiled: Security Operatives Arrest Suspect with N25.9m Cash in Kaduna

Vote Buying Foiled: Security Operatives Arrest Suspect with N25.9m Cash in Kaduna

In a significant move to prevent electoral malpractices, security operatives in Kaduna have arrested a suspected vote buyer, Shehu Aliyu Patangi, with a staggering N25,963,000 cash. The arrest was made barely hours before the conduct of Saturday’s bye-elections in parts of the state .

The suspect was apprehended around 3:30 a.m. by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) at a popular hotel along Turunku Road in Kaduna metropolis. Preliminary investigations revealed that the huge cash was intended to induce voters and compromise the integrity of the electoral process .

The suspect has already confessed to the crime and pleaded for leniency. Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, warned that anyone caught attempting to subvert the electoral process would face the full wrath of the law, regardless of their status. “The Command will deal decisively with troublemakers. Anyone, no matter how highly placed, who engages in violence, intimidation, vote buying, or thuggery will be arrested and prosecuted,” the police said in a statement .

The police command has deployed personnel to polling units, collation centers, and other strategic flashpoints across the state to prevent any disruptions or unrest. Residents have been assured of adequate security before, during, and after the elections, and are urged to exercise their civic duty peacefully .

This arrest highlights the importance of vigilance in preventing electoral malpractices. The Kaduna State Police Command’s swift action demonstrates its commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process. As the bye-elections proceed, citizens can expect a peaceful and secure environment, thanks to the efforts of security agencies.