ICPC Apprehends Six Suspected Vote Buyers in Imo State, Retrieves N4.1m During Gubernatorial Election

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) took decisive action during the gubernatorial election held on Saturday in Imo State. Six individuals suspected of engaging in vote buying were apprehended at seven different polling units across the state. The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), led to the recovery of a substantial sum totaling N4.1 million from the arrested suspects.

According to a statement released by the ICPC, these suspects were intercepted at Orji Mechanic Village (PU 008), Concord Hotel (PU 009), Rento Hotel (PU 010), Township School (PU 005, 007, 008), and Ojukwu Library. The recovered funds were found in possession of these individuals, indicating their involvement in illicit electoral practices.

Among the seized items were a notebook containing names and phone numbers, along with a detailed list featuring voter information. Following their arrest, the suspects underwent questioning, profiling, and the recording of their statements. Despite being released on bail, investigations into their activities remain ongoing.

The ICPC, in alignment with its commitment to maintaining the integrity of electoral processes, continues to combat vote buying and related offenses, serving as a crucial safeguard against corrupt electoral practices.