Security operatives in Kaduna have arrested a suspected vote buyer, Shehu Aliyu Patangi, with a total of ₦25,963,000 in cash, just hours before scheduled by-elections in parts of the state.
Patangi was apprehended around 3:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, at a hotel along Turunku Road by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS).
According to DSP Mansir Hassan, spokesperson for the Kaduna State Police Command, preliminary investigations indicate the cash was intended to influence voters and compromise the integrity of the electoral process. He said the suspect confessed during interrogation and pleaded for leniency.
Commissioner of Police Rabiu Muhammad warned that the command will not tolerate any attempts to undermine the elections through vote buying, violence, or other illegal acts.
“The suspect was caught with the cash believed to be for bribing voters. He has confessed and begged for mercy. We are sending a clear message—anyone involved in electoral malpractice will be dealt with according to the law,” CP Muhammad stated.
The Police Command also issued a broader warning to political actors and their supporters to avoid any actions that could disrupt the elections. Intelligence reports, according to authorities, suggest some politicians may be planning to incite unrest.
Security personnel have been deployed across polling units, collation centers, and other key areas. The command assured the public of adequate protection before, during, and after the polls, urging citizens to vote peacefully and without fear.
