Security personnel in Ogun State on Saturday arrested two people suspected to be staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and a politician after they were allegedly caught with a large sum of money believed to be meant for vote-buying during the state by-election.
The suspects, comprising a man and a woman, were picked up at a hotel in Iperu-Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area, in the heat of election activities. They were reportedly found in possession of the cash and other materials that raised suspicion of electoral malpractice.
A viral video that surfaced online shortly after the arrest showed the two INEC officials squatting while being interrogated by security operatives. In the footage, some individuals alleged to be members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were also present, further fueling speculation of an attempt to influence the voting process.
The security officer who questioned them in the video alleged that intelligence reports had earlier linked the INEC officials to party operatives who had contacted them with a huge financial inducement to compromise the election. He accused them of being part of a plot to use the money to buy votes and tilt the outcome of the by-election in favor of certain political interests.
The development has generated widespread concern among residents and stakeholders, many of whom see it as a fresh test of Nigeria’s democratic process and the credibility of the electoral system. Vote-buying has long been a recurring problem in Nigerian elections, with civil society groups repeatedly calling on security agencies and INEC to do more to curb the practice.
Meanwhile, authorities have not yet released the exact amount of money recovered from the suspects, but sources say the sum was substantial enough to attract immediate investigation. The arrested individuals are expected to face further interrogation, and their case may be handed over to the appropriate anti-graft agencies for prosecution.
INEC has not officially reacted to the incident at the time of this report. However, the commission has consistently maintained a zero-tolerance stance toward electoral malpractice, stressing that any staff member found guilty of compromising their duty would face disciplinary action and possible prosecution.
Saturday’s by-election in Ogun State was one of several being conducted nationwide to fill vacant seats following court rulings and resignations. The election drew heavy security presence across polling units in the state as part of efforts to prevent violence, ballot snatching, and other forms of electoral misconduct.
As investigations continue, observers and voters alike are watching closely to see how the matter will be handled, with many calling on both INEC and security agencies to ensure that justice is served and that the credibility of the electoral process is upheld.
