The arrests of 14 individuals for suspected vote buying during the governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states were made by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The commission confirmed these arrests in a statement released on X.
The suspects were apprehended during operations conducted at various polling centers in the three states based on pre-poll intelligence. A total of N11.04 million in cash was seized from the arrested individuals, with N9.31 million recovered in Bayelsa and N1.73 million in Imo.
Additionally, two vehicles were impounded from the suspects who were predominantly apprehended around polling units and playgrounds serving as vote trading centers.
The EFCC stated that the 14 detainees will face charges following the completion of investigations.
The arrests were a part of the commission’s efforts to combat electoral malpractices, particularly vote buying, which could potentially compromise the integrity of the off-cycle governorship elections.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
