Nigerian police have arrested three electoral officials and their driver in connection with an alleged attempt to influence a local by-election, following the discovery of a significant cash sum linked to a shadowy figure identified only as “Political Solution.” The incident occurred during Saturday’s parliamentary by-election for the Remo Federal Constituency in Ogun State, a race held to fill a vacant seat in Nigeria’s House of Representatives.
According to a statement released by the Ogun State Police Command, the suspects—officials of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)—were intercepted by a patrol team shortly after midnight in Iperu Remo, a town 65 kilometers northeast of Lagos. Police spokesperson CSP Omolola Odutola confirmed that a Mitsubishi Space Wagon with license plate AKD 887 HT was stopped, leading to the discovery of 2.5 million naira (approximately $5,400) in cash. The funds were reportedly found in the possession of one staff member during a search of the vehicle.
“Upon interrogation, the individual confessed to receiving the money at Kehoy Hotel in Iperu from a person he described as ‘Political Solution,’ who allegedly acted on directives from the suspect’s supervisor,” Odutola stated. While the spokesperson did not clarify the exact purpose of the funds, electoral malpractice and vote-buying scandals have plagued Nigerian elections for years, often involving cash distributed to sway voter behavior or manipulate results.
The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny of Nigeria’s electoral processes, with reforms implemented after the contentious 2023 general elections aiming to curb irregularities. The Remo by-election, though localized, is seen as a test of these measures. INEC has not yet commented on whether the detained officials were formally assigned to oversee the poll.
Commissioner of Police Lanre Ogunlowo has ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Eleweran for what authorities describe as a “discreet and thorough” probe. Odutola emphasized that election monitoring remained active across the constituency and pledged transparency in disclosing investigative findings.
The nickname “Political Solution” has drawn attention, reflecting a broader trend of opaque political actors operating behind pseudonyms in Nigeria’s often volatile electoral landscape. Analysts note that such incidents undermine public trust in democratic institutions, particularly as economic hardships and inflation amplify the allure of cash handouts during elections.
While no further arrests have been announced, the incident has reignited debates about enforcement gaps in Nigeria’s electoral laws. Local observers stress that holding perpetrators accountable—including those in supervisory roles—will be critical to deterring future violations. For now, authorities urge patience as investigations continue.
