Security operatives in Kaduna have arrested a man allegedly attempting to buy votes ahead of Saturday’s bye-election in the state.
The suspect, identified as Shehu Aliyu Patangi, was intercepted at about 3:30a.m. on Saturday at a hotel on Turunku Road within the Kaduna metropolis.
He was reportedly caught with cash amounting to ₦25,963,000.
Spokesman for the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest in a statement. He disclosed that the operation was carried out in conjunction with the Department of State Services.
“Our operatives apprehended Shehu Aliyu Patangi with the sum of ₦25.9 million, suspected to be earmarked for inducing voters during the bye-election,” DSP Hassan said. “He has confessed and is pleading for leniency.”
He also quoted the Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, as saying the command would deal decisively with anyone who attempts to manipulate the electoral process.
“We will not tolerate vote buying, thuggery, or violence,” CP Muhammad warned. “Whoever is found wanting, no matter how highly placed, will be arrested and prosecuted.”
The command further cautioned political actors and their supporters against fomenting trouble during the polls, noting that intelligence reports suggest plans by some individuals to disrupt the election.
“To safeguard the integrity of the process, security personnel have been deployed to polling units, collation centres, and identified flashpoints,” DSP Hassan added.
The police assured residents of adequate protection before, during, and after voting, urging citizens to turn out peacefully and exercise their civic rights.
