Seized N25.9m Was for Agents’ Welfare, Not Vote Buying, Explains Kaduna PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State has dismissed allegations that the N25.9 million seized from one of its members during Saturday’s by-election was meant for vote buying.

On Saturday, security operatives arrested one Shehu Aliyu Patangi at a hotel along Turunku Road in Kaduna metropolis with the sum of N25,963,000 in cash. Police authorities alleged that the funds were earmarked to induce voters at the polls.

Reacting on Sunday, the Kaduna State PDP described the development as a deliberate attempt to smear the party’s image and undermine its participation in the election.

According to the party, the money in question was specifically allocated for the welfare of its 5,000 accredited polling agents across the state who had been mobilised to monitor the electoral process.

“Our party does not engage in vote buying or any illegal electoral practice,” the PDP said in a statement. “The funds were strictly set aside to cater for the allowances and welfare of our polling agents who worked tirelessly to protect the integrity of the ballot.”

The opposition party further accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating the arrest to distract the electorate and divert attention from what it described as widespread irregularities during the polls.

Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Police Command has confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the true purpose of the seized cash. The command also assured that findings will be made public, while stressing its commitment to ensuring a free and credible electoral process.

The by-election, conducted in parts of Kaduna, was marred by reports of voter inducement, late arrival of materials, and skirmishes in some polling areas.