In a major breakthrough, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) apprehended 14 individuals suspected of engaging in vote-buying activities across polling units in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi States. The arrests were made on Saturday, November 11, 2023, as part of meticulously planned intelligence-driven operations leading up to the ongoing governorship elections in these three states.
Significant Financial Interception Totalling N11,040,000
The EFCC‘s operations yielded substantial results as they intercepted a total sum of N11,040,000 (Eleven Million, Forty Thousand Naira only) from the suspected vote buyers and sellers. In Bayelsa State, N9,310,000 (Nine Million, Three Hundred and Ten Thousand Naira) was recovered, while in Imo State, N1,730,000 (One Million, Seven Hundred and Thirty Thousand Naira) was seized from individuals involved in electoral fraud.
Geographical Hotspots – Otueke, Adawari Playgrounds, and Various Polling Units
The arrests took place in strategic locations, including Otueke and Adawari playgrounds in Bayelsa State, showcasing the EFCC‘s focus on targeting key hotspots where electoral malpractices were suspected. Additionally, suspects were apprehended at various polling units in Imo and Kogi States, highlighting the widespread nature of the agency’s efforts to curb fraudulent activities during the elections.
Vehicles Seized in Connection with Electoral Fraud
Apart from the substantial financial interceptions, the EFCC also seized two vehicles believed to be linked to the suspects. This underscores the Commission’s commitment to thorough investigations, ensuring that all elements connected to electoral fraud are brought to light.
The EFCC’s swift and targeted actions leading up to the governorship elections demonstrate a commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process. The arrests and financial interceptions send a strong message that attempts to compromise the democratic system will not be tolerated, further emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the electoral process. As investigations unfold, the EFCC remains vigilant, working to maintain the credibility of the electoral system and safeguard the democratic principles upon which the nation is built.
Unverified Reports of Polling Unit Result Forgery Spark EFCC Action
Allegations of people forging results from polling units have surfaced in Kogi State, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and suspicion surrounding the ongoing governorship elections. These reports, though mostly unverified, prompted swift action from officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The agency deployed personnel to Ayetoro-Gbede, the polling unit of Dino Melaye, the gubernatorial candidate for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State.
Dino Melaye Absent as EFCC Investigates Election Irregularities
In the midst of the unfolding chaos, Dino Melaye, the PDP candidate, was notably absent from his designated polling unit. Despite earlier allegations made by Melaye in circulated videos, claiming widespread malpractices across Kogi State, the governorship candidate had not appeared at the venue to cast his vote, as voting was scheduled to conclude at 2 p.m. across the state.
The EFCC’s presence at Ayetoro-Gbede signifies the gravity of the situation and the need for a thorough investigation into the alleged election issues. As the nation eagerly awaits the outcome of the governorship elections, the absence of Dino Melaye at his polling unit adds another layer of intrigue to the unfolding events.
These developments also occur against the backdrop of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) issuing a statement announcing the suspension of some polling units in response to reported electoral malpractices in Kogi State. The move by INEC reflects the electoral body’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that irregularities are swiftly addressed.
As the EFCC delves into the matter and INEC takes steps to rectify malpractices, the situation in Kogi State remains fluid. The unfolding events serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the electoral process and the importance of vigilant oversight to uphold the principles of democracy. The blog will continue to monitor and report on these developments as they progress.
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