The Nigeria Police Force has announced the arrest of a “fake journalist” who claimed to work for a major Nigerian television station during the Edo State governorship election on Saturday.
In a comprehensive operation, the police also apprehended two key suspects, Emotingham Godspower (25) and Farawei Isaac (27), both members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Ufunama community, Ovia Southwest Local Government Area, Edo State. This was disclosed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement made available to Channels Television.
“The suspects, linked to a larger network involving an individual known as ‘Atiku’ and a kingpin referred to as ‘the boss,’ were arrested at So Cash guest house in Ekpoma, where a substantial amount of cash and incriminating items were recovered,” the statement revealed.
Items recovered included a list of voters’ names with corresponding monetary values, pre-filled ballot papers, and fake identification cards.
Adejobi further disclosed that six other suspects—Suleiman Abdurahim, Fatima Yakubu, Yusuf Aminat (52), Salihu Lukman (54), and Safianu Saratu (32)—were arrested at Aibotse Secondary School near Meremu Hotel, Auchi, for involvement in vote buying. The group was found with a large sum of money, a cache of weapons, and detailed plans for voter intimidation.
“Our team’s careful planning and swift action have struck a significant blow against those attempting to undermine the electoral process,” Adejobi said, adding that investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as events develop.