EFCC Arraigns PDP Reps Candidate, Campaign DG for Alleged Vote Buying

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Esther Ashivilli Dawaki, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency by-election, and Shehu Aliyu Fatange, the Director General of her campaign organization, before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

They face five counts related to money laundering and vote buying.

The charges stem from an incident on August 16, 2025, when EFCC operatives discovered ₦26,463,000 concealed in a Toyota Corolla owned by Fatange, parked at a hotel in Kaduna. The money allegedly exceeded legal limits for cash transactions and was suspected to be intended for vote buying during the by-election held that same day.

Dawaki and Fatange pleaded not guilty to the charges. Prosecution counsel M.O. Arumemi requested a trial date and the defendants’ remand in a correctional facility.

Defense counsels E.N. Ogbu and A.A. Ashat applied for bail, suggesting temporary detention at the EFCC’s holding facility.

Justice Emeka Nwite ordered Dawaki’s remand at the Suleja Correctional Centre and Fatange’s at Kuje Correctional Centre.

The case was adjourned to Monday, September 15, 2025, for bail hearings.

The EFCC’s investigation underscores ongoing efforts to combat electoral corruption and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes.