By Joe Udo
KADUNA (CONVERSEER) – Security operatives in Kaduna State have arrested a man allegedly involved in vote-buying with about ₦25 million ahead of today’s bye-elections.
In a statement on Saturday, the spokesman of the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, identified the suspect as Shehu Patangi.
He was arrested in the early hours of the day at a hotel along Turunku Road in Kaduna metropolis, where he was allegedly coordinating the distribution of funds to influence voters in the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency by-election.
According to Hassan, a total cash sum of ₦25,963,000 was recovered from the suspect, believed to have been set aside for voter inducement to compromise the electoral process.
The police added that during preliminary interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime and pleaded for leniency.
Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, commended security agencies for their synergy in ensuring swift action against electoral malpractice.
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He warned that anyone, regardless of status, found attempting to undermine the electoral process would face the full weight of the law.
Muhammad further assured residents of maximum security before, during, and after the elections, urging eligible voters to come out and exercise their franchise peacefully and lawfully without fear or intimidation.
About the Chikun/Kajuru By-Election
The Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency by-election was scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the declaration of vacancy in the seat earlier in 2025.
The constituency, located in Kaduna State, has often attracted political attention due to its large voter population and its history of being a closely contested area between major political parties.
The outcome of the election is expected to play a role in shaping political dynamics within Kaduna and could influence party strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
