APC Chieftain, Wahab Hammed, Sentenced to Jail for Vote Buying in Lagos

In a decisive move to uphold the sanctity of electoral processes, the Lagos High Court in Ikeja has sentenced Wahab Hammed, a prominent ward leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Surulere, Lagos, to a one-year jail term or a fine of N1 million. This follows his conviction on two counts of conspiracy and bribery by Justice Ismail Ijelu.

The charges stem from the defendant’s collaboration with Segun Ijitola (currently at large) in illicitly offering bribes to voters during the 2023 Presidential and National Assembly Elections. The court heard that this transpired at Unit 28, Gbaja Girls Junior High School, Surulere, on February 25, 2023.

During the trial, the EFCC Prosecutor, Samuel Daji, revealed that Hammed, upon arrest, was found in possession of N121,000 in N500 denominations, which he admitted receiving from Hon. Segun Ijitola, a Senior Special Assistant to the Chairman of Surulere Local Government. Hammed acknowledged that the funds were intended to influence voters in favor of the APC.

The court, having accepted the evidence and Hammed’s guilty plea, sentenced him to one year in prison or a fine of N500,000 for each of the two counts. Furthermore, the defendant is required to forfeit the ill-gotten gains to the Federal Government.

In his plea for leniency, Hammed, aged over 70, cited health issues and emphasized that he had no previous criminal record. His counsel, Mr. Olaniyi Ademola, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Hammed’s voluntary guilty plea and status as a first-time offender.

Justice Ijelu, while acknowledging Hammed’s remorse and lack of prior convictions, emphasized the need to sanitize the electoral process. The judge exercised discretion in imposing a custodial sentence, asserting that a non-custodial sentence might not adequately deter the convict from future misconduct.

In addition to the jail term and fine, Hammed must commit in writing to the EFCC to uphold good behavior and refrain from criminal activities in the future. The court’s decision reflects a commitment to preserving the integrity of elections and deterring individuals from engaging in corrupt practices.