Nigerian Police Arrest Political Thugs and Party Loyalists for Vote Buying

In a significant crackdown on electoral malpractice, the Nigerian Police have arrested several individuals involved in vote buying and other illegal activities. The operation, conducted on September 20, 2024, at around 7:00 PM, targeted known hotspots and resulted in the apprehension of key suspects and the recovery of incriminating items.

Among those arrested are Emotingham Godspower (25) and Farawei Isaac (27), both members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from Ufunama community, Ovia South West LGA, Edo State. The suspects were detained at So Cash guest house in Ekpoma, where police recovered a substantial amount of cash, a list of voters’ names with corresponding monetary values, pre-filled ballot papers, and fake identification cards.

Additionally, six other individuals were arrested at Aibotse Secondary School, near Meremu Hotel in Auchi. The suspects, identified as Suleiman Abdurahim, Fatima Yakubu, Yusuf Aminat (52), Salihu Lukman (54), and Safianu Saratu (32), were found with a large sum of money, a cache of weapons, and a detailed plan for voter intimidation.

A fake journalist, claiming to be a staff member of a leading Nigerian television station, was also apprehended, further exposing the extent of the criminal network.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, stated that the police’s meticulous planning and swift action have significantly disrupted efforts to undermine the electoral process. He reaffirmed the police’s commitment to ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections.