No fewer than nine suspects have been arrested by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force during the ongoing Edo State governorship election.
While eight were arrested for suspected vote buying, the ninth suspect posed as a fake journalist, claiming to be a staff member of a leading television station in the country.
In a statement on Saturday, the Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, said two suspects, Emotingham Godspower and Farawei Isaac, are key members of the Peoples Democratic Party.
Adejobi added that the two PDP members are connected to two kingpins identified as “Atiku” and “The Boss.”
He said, “In yet another comprehensive operation, police operatives conducted synchronized raids on identified black spots on September 20, 2024, at approximately 1900 hours.
The well-coordinated effort led to the arrest of two key suspects, Emotingham Godspower (25) and Farawei Isaac (27), both from the Ufunama community, Ovia South West LGA, Edo State.
“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.
These items included a list of voters’ names with corresponding monetary values, a collection of pre-filled ballot papers, and a set of fake identification cards.”
He also stated that six other suspects were arrested with a large sum of money, weapons, and other items.
Adejobi added, “Furthermore, six suspects, namely Suleiman Abdurahim, Fatima Yakubu, Yusuf Aminat (52 years), Salihu Lukman (54 years), and Safianu Saratu (32 years), 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 claimed to be a staff member of one of Nigeria’s leading television stations, 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.”
