By Abubakar Yunusa
The Nigeria Police Force says its operatives have apprehended a “fake journalist” who claims to be a staff member of one of the leading television stations in Nigeria during the governorship election in Edo State on Saturday.
According to the police, the operatives also arrested “two key suspects who are members of the PDP, Emotingham Godspower (25) and Farawei Isaac (27), both from Ufunama community, Ovia Southwest Local Government Area, Edo state in a comprehensive operation.”
The was disclose by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement made available to Channels Television.
“The suspects, connected to a larger network involving one “Atiku” and a kingpin known as “the boss”, were apprehended at a guest house in Ekpoma, where a substantial amount of cash and incriminating items were recovered,” the statement said.
The items recovered include a list of voters’ names with corresponding monetary values, a collection of pre-filled ballot papers, and a set of fake identification cards.
Adejobi further disclosed that another six suspects namely Suleiman Abdurahim, Fatima Yakubu, Yusuf Aminat 52 yrs, Salihu Lukman 54yrs, Safianu Saratu 32yrs were all arrested at Aibotse Secondary School, beside Meremu hotel, Auchi, for engaging in vote buying.
According to him, this group was found with a large sum of money, a cache of weapons and a detailed plan outlining strategies for voter intimidation.
“Our team’s meticulous planning and swift action have dealt a significant blow to those seeking to undermine and discredit the electoral process.
“We remain vigilant and committed to ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election. Investigations are ongoing, and updates will be provided as events unfold,” the statement added.