Kaduna State authorities have recovered N25.9 million in cash linked to alleged vote buying ahead of Saturday’s by-elections, with officials stating the funds belonged to the opposition.
Alhaji Ahmed Maiyaki, Kaduna State Commissioner for Information, said the cash was seized by security agencies from a suspected vote buyer at a hotel. Maiyaki emphasized that the ruling party, APC, did not engage in any vote buying, noting that their campaign focused on seeking voters’ support through legitimate means.
“Votes are not for sale; votes are meant for people to cast based on their conscience,” Maiyaki said, highlighting the integrity of the party’s approach.
During an inspection of the Zaria Kewaye and Basawa constituencies, the commissioner praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the early distribution of election materials, smooth simultaneous accreditation, and voting process. He also commended the high voter turnout and the collaborative preparation by all stakeholders, calling it “unprecedented.”
The by-elections in the two state assembly constituencies within Zaria metropolis were reported to be proceeding peacefully, with security agencies actively monitoring the process to ensure free and fair voting.