The by-election underway in Kaduna on Saturday, August 16, took a dramatic turn early this morning, as security operatives arrested a suspected vote-buyer allegedly in possession of ₦25.9 million in cash—believed to be intended for voter inducement.
The suspect, identified as Shehu Aliyu Patangi, was apprehended around 3:30 AM by a joint team of the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS). The arrest occurred at a prominent hotel along Turunku Road in Kaduna metropolis, just hours before polling commenced in the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency.
Security Agencies Confirm Arrest, Recover ₦25.96 Million
In an official statement, DSP Mansir Hassan, spokesperson for the Kaduna State Police Command, confirmed the development. He stated that a total of ₦25,963,000 was recovered from the suspect, who allegedly admitted during questioning that the money was earmarked for distribution to voters.
Authorities believe the cash was meant to compromise the integrity of the electoral process in the constituency. During interrogation, Patangi reportedly confessed and pleaded for leniency.
Police Commissioner Vows to Prosecute Electoral Offenders
Reacting to the incident, Commissioner of Police Rabiu Muhammad commended the synergy between security agencies and reaffirmed the commitment of law enforcement to ensuring a credible electoral process.
“Anyone caught attempting to manipulate the electoral process will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, regardless of political affiliation,” CP Muhammad stated.
He also assured Kaduna residents that comprehensive security measures had been put in place across all identified flashpoints to guarantee a free, fair, and peaceful election. He urged citizens to come out en masse to exercise their civic rights without fear or intimidation.
Bye-Elections Held Across Multiple States
While Kaduna’s by-election has drawn significant attention, similar elections are concurrently taking place across several other states. Senatorial district elections are being held in Edo and Anambra, while federal constituency polls are taking place in Edo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Ogun, and Oyo. State assembly elections are also being conducted in Adamawa, Anambra, Kogi, Kaduna, Kano, Niger, Taraba, and Zamfara.
Political Tensions Rise as APC Responds to El-Rufai
In a related political development, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has responded to criticism from former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, expressing confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will secure re-election in 2027.
Felix Morka, APC National Publicity Secretary, said El-Rufai and his political allies—now backing the African Democratic Congress (ADC)—have failed to present a credible alternative to President Tinubu’s bold economic reforms.
