Edo election: Again, police arrest political thugs, party loyalists for vote buying, fake journalist 

Stanley Ihedigbo

In yet another comprehensive operation, Nigeria Police Force has again conducted synchronized raids on identified black spots arrested political thugs, party loyalists for vote buying, recovers cash, incriminating items.

The well-coordinated effort led to the arrest of two key suspects, who are members of the Party Democratic Party (PDP), Emotingham Godspower (25) and Farawei Isaac (27), both from Ufunama community, Ovia South West LGA, Edo state and a fake journalist.

According to the Force Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, 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 recovered are,  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; Salihu Lukman 54y; Safianu Saratu 32; 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,  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.

The  team’s meticulous planning and swift action have dealt a significant blow to those seeking to undermine and discredit the electoral process.

They remain vigilant and committed to ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election.

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