The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested three people for allegedly engaging in vote buying during the Anambra State governorship election held on Saturday.
The anti-graft agency disclosed this in a post shared on its official Facebook page. The arrests came after African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate Chioma Ifemeludike raised the alarm over widespread vote buying in parts of the state.
Ifemeludike had alleged that some voters sold their votes for as low as ₦3,000 to ₦5,000, claiming the act was openly supervised by unidentified political agents. Her claims added to growing concerns over electoral malpractice and voter inducement.
The EFCC confirmed that its operatives arrested the suspects in different locations across the state.
“Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested three suspected vote buyers in various parts of Anambra,” the agency said.
The statement identified the suspects as Emeka Ilokasia, arrested at Ward 2, Njikoka Local Government Area; Nwachukwu Loretta, picked up at Ward 2 (008), Awkuzu in Oyi LGA; and Emuka Chuwudi, arrested at Umunachi Village in Dunukofia LGA.
All the suspects were allegedly caught while participating in the governorship election held on November 8, 2025.
A photo released by the EFCC showed one of the suspects being questioned by operatives during the exercise. The agency said investigations were ongoing and confirmed that the suspects would be charged to court once preliminary inquiries are concluded.
The development followed a wave of reports alleging that several political parties attempted to influence voters through cash inducements. Election observers also noted incidents of voter intimidation and logistical delays in some polling units.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed that voting took place across most areas despite technical glitches and minor disruptions.
The EFCC said it remains committed to ensuring credible elections by tackling all forms of electoral fraud and voter manipulation.