Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 20 individuals for alleged electoral offences linked to the just-concluded Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections. The arrests, executed on February 21, 2026, followed intelligence-led surveillance operations by the agency’s operatives deployed to monitor voting across the territory.
The EFCC reported that the suspects were apprehended at various polling units for offences including vote buying, vote selling, and obstruction of electoral officers. A total of N17,218,700 in cash was recovered from the individuals during the operation. A significant portion of this sum, approximately N13.5 million, was seized from one suspect found with the cash inside a vehicle parked near a polling booth in Kwali Area Council. The commission stated that the large amount raised strong suspicion of an attempt to induce voters.
A breakdown of the arrests indicates two suspects were held in Abaji Area Council, nine in Gwagwalada, four in Kuje, and four in Kwali. The EFCC emphasized that the operation is part of its statutory mandate to combat financial crimes and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process. In recent election cycles, the commission has strengthened coordination with other security agencies to deter vote trading and related electoral malpractices.
Electoral observers have consistently highlighted that the practice of vote buying severely compromises election credibility and erodes public trust in democratic institutions. The FCT area council elections were conducted across all six area councils under a heightened security framework, with authorities reiterating a policy of zero tolerance for electoral offences.
The EFCC confirmed that investigations into the incidents are ongoing. Upon the conclusion of preliminary findings, the suspects are expected to be formally charged in court. The actions underscore ongoing efforts to enforce electoral laws and address financial inducements that threaten free and fair voting, a critical component of Nigeria’s democratic consolidation.
