Security Operatives Arrest Suspected Vote Buyer with ₦25.9m Cash in Kaduna By-Election

In a dramatic crackdown on electoral malpractice, security operatives in Kaduna State, comprising the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), apprehended a suspected vote buyer, Shehu Aliyu Patangi, with a staggering sum of ₦25,963,000 cash allegedly intended for vote inducement in the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency by-election.

The arrest took place around 3:30am on Saturday at a prominent hotel along Turunku Road, Kaduna metropolis. The operation, which involved coordinated efforts by several security agencies, sought to stem the tide of voter manipulation threatening the transparency of the electoral process.

According to the official statement released by DSP Mansir Hassan, spokesman for the Kaduna State Police Command, the suspect was found in possession of the cash, believed to be earmarked to bribe voters and compromise the election’s integrity. During preliminary interrogation, Patangi reportedly admitted that the funds were meant for influencing voters in the ongoing by-election and pleaded for leniency in the face of mounting evidence.

Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, commended collaborative action among security agencies, assuring the public of continued vigilance and robust security throughout the election period. He issued a stern warning, stating that anyone found attempting to undermine the electoral process, regardless of political alignment, would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

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Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the suspect’s political affiliation, with several media outlets identifying Patangi as an agent of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). However, security sources emphasized that investigations remain ongoing and that updates will be provided as more verified information becomes available.

Residents of Kaduna State have been urged by authorities to exercise their civic rights peacefully and refrain from any involvement in electoral fraud, as security agencies maintain utmost commitment to safeguarding the sanctity of the polls.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect had planned to use the said amount to bribe eligible voters. On interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime and pleaded for leniency,” stated DSP Mansir Hassan.

This incident marks a pivotal moment in the fight against vote buying and sets a precedent for the enforcement of electoral laws ahead of future elections across Nigeria.