Security operatives have apprehended a suspected vote buyer, Shehu Aliyu Kaduna Patangi, with ₦25,963,000 cash in Kaduna metropolis.
The arrest occurred around 3:30 a.m. at a popular hotel along Turunku Road, just hours before Saturday’s bye-elections in parts of the state.
The operation was carried out by the Nigeria Police Force in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS).
Money Allegedly Meant to Influence Voters
Kaduna Police Command’s spokesman, DSP Mansir Hassan, disclosed that preliminary investigations indicated the cash was intended to induce voters and compromise the election process.
According to Hassan, the suspect confessed during interrogation and pleaded for leniency.
Command Vows to Protect Electoral Integrity
Quoting Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, Hassan warned that anyone caught attempting to undermine free and fair elections would face severe legal consequences.
“The suspect was arrested with the said amount believed to have been set aside for voter inducement. He confessed to the crime and begged for mercy,” CP Muhammad said.
Warning Against Electoral Violence
The Police Command also cautioned political actors and their supporters to refrain from violence, thuggery, or any unlawful activity during the polls.
Authorities revealed that credible intelligence suggested some politicians were plotting to trigger unrest, vowing to counter any such plans.