Again, Police arrest suspected political thugs, party loyalists for vote buying in Edo

CITIZENS COMPASS– As the Edo State Governorship election was ongoing on Saturday, the Nigeria Police Force said its operatives have apprehended some suspected political thugs and party loyalists for vote buying in the State.

Among the arrested suspecs was a fake journalist who claimed to be working with a top television station in Nigeria who was arrested alongside the suspected political thugs.

The operatives said the operation leading to the arrests of the suspected political thugs was a well conducted synchronized raids on identified black spots on Friday, September 20, 2024, at approximately 1900hrs. 

Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement said a well-coordinated effort led to the arrest,

He identified two key arrested suspects to be members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Emotingham Godspower (25) and Farawei Isaac (27), both from Ufunama community, Ovia South West LGA, Edo state.

According to him, “The suspects, connected to a larger network involving one “Atiku” and a kingpin known as “the boss”, were apprehended at So Cash Guest House in Ekpoma, where a substantial amount of cash and incriminating items were recovered.”

He said among the recovered items were a list of voters’ names with corresponding monetary values, a collection of pre-filled ballot papers, and a set of fake identification cards.

“Furthermore, six suspects namely Suleiman Abdurahim,Fatima Yakubu,Yusuf Aminat 52 yrs,Salihu Lukman 54yrs,Safianu Saratu 32yrs were all arrested at Aibotse Secondary School, beside Meremu hotel, Auchi, for engaging in vote buying. This group was found with a large sum of money, a cache of weapons and a detailed plan outlining strategies for voter intimidation.

“A fake journalist who claims to be a staff member of one of the leading television stations in Nigeria was also apprehended, further highlighting the extent of the criminal network.

“Our team’s meticulous planning and swift action have dealt a significant blow to those seeking to undermine and discredit the electoral process. We remain vigilant and committed to ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election.

“Investigations are ongoing, and updates will be provided as events unfold.”