Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Saturday arrested three persons suspected of engaging in vote buying during the Anambra State governorship election.
The anti-graft agency disclosed that the arrests were made in different parts of the state following credible intelligence and field surveillance by its operatives deployed to monitor electoral malpractices.
According to a statement issued by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the suspects were apprehended at various polling units while attempting to influence voters through monetary inducements.
“The suspects were arrested at Ward 2, Njikoka Local Government Area; Ward 2, Unit 008, Awkuzu in Oyi Local Government; and Umunachi Village in Dunukofia Local Government,” the statement read.
Oyewale explained that the arrests were made as the suspects were either offering cash to voters or collecting money in exchange for their votes.
He added that the operation was part of the EFCC’s broader mandate to curb financial crimes and ensure credible elections devoid of monetary manipulation.
“All the suspects were arrested while participating in the election. They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded,” he stated.
The EFCC’s action comes amid growing concerns over the increasing trend of vote buying during elections across Nigeria.
Analysts have repeatedly warned that the practice undermines democracy, compromises the integrity of the electoral process, and erodes citizens’ confidence in public institutions.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier reported a largely peaceful exercise, even as it confirmed that results from the polls were already being uploaded on the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal.
The Anambra governorship election has drawn attention from observers and civil society groups monitoring the level of compliance with electoral laws and the conduct of security agencies.
The EFCC has in recent years intensified efforts to tackle financial inducements during elections, with similar arrests made in previous polls in Kano, Ekiti, and Kogi States.
‘
‘Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
Leave a comment