INEC orders police and EFCC to arrest vote buyers ahead of FCT elections as 1.68 million voters prepare for crucial Area Council polls.
As preparations intensify for the February 21 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Amupitan, has directed security and anti-graft agencies to clamp down on vote buying and electoral malpractice.
Speaking during a strategic meeting held Tuesday at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, Prof. Amupitan disclosed that the Commission has formally instructed the Nigeria Police Force, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to immediately arrest individuals caught engaging in vote trading.
The INEC Chairman emphasized that vote buying remains a major threat to credible elections and warned that the Commission will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the democratic process. He noted that proactive enforcement would help safeguard the integrity of the ballot.
Intelligence presented by the National Peace Committee identified potential flashpoints within the FCT, including Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari, Kuje, and Gwagwalada. Reports suggest that these areas may experience heightened risks of cash inducements and localized tensions as political activities intensify.
The upcoming off-cycle elections will see voters elect six Area Council Chairmen and 62 Councillors across the FCT. With approximately 1.68 million registered voters expected to participate, INEC has already commenced mock accreditation exercises to test its readiness.
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Observers view the FCT polls as a critical benchmark for the Commission’s operational preparedness ahead of the 2027 general elections. The firm stance against vote buying signals INEC’s determination to strengthen electoral credibility and reinforce public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic system.