Security operatives in Kaduna State have apprehended a suspected political agent in possession of over ₦25 million allegedly intended for vote buying in the ongoing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency bye-election. The arrest took place in the early hours of Saturday at a popular hotel along Turunku Road in the Kaduna metropolis.
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, the suspect, identified as Shehu Patangi, was allegedly coordinating the distribution of cash to influence voters in the election. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was in possession of a total sum of ₦25.963 million, believed to have been earmarked for inducing voters and compromising the integrity of the electoral process.
During initial interrogation, Patangi reportedly confessed to the crime and pleaded for leniency.
The Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, commended the swift collaboration between security agencies that led to the arrest. He emphasized that the command will not tolerate any attempts to undermine the electoral process and vowed that all violators, regardless of status or political affiliation, will face the full weight of the law.
The Commissioner further assured residents of the state of the command’s dedication to ensuring maximum security before, during, and after the elections. He urged citizens to go out to exercise their franchise peacefully and without fear of intimidation.
