(DDM) – Security operatives in Ogun State have arrested suspected Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials and a politician allegedly plotting to buy votes during a by-election.
The arrests took place on Saturday, August 16, 2025, in Iperu-Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State.
DDM gathered that the suspects were apprehended at a hotel where they were reportedly in possession of a large sum of money intended for vote-buying.
According to circulating videos on social media, the suspects included a male and female INEC official as well as political actors linked to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The video showed the suspects squatting while being interrogated by security personnel who accused them of receiving money to influence the electoral process.
The unidentified officer in the viral clip alleged that intelligence reports had earlier revealed the plot and confirmed that the money had been delivered to the officials.
In the footage, bundles of cash were displayed, sparking outrage among citizens already worried about electoral malpractice in Nigeria.
The alleged politician was identified by local sources as Hon. Tella, a PDP figure, though official confirmation was still being awaited from law enforcement agencies.
Observers note that the by-election in Ogun State is being closely monitored following concerns about rising political tension and the credibility of electoral institutions.
DDM recalls that Nigerian elections have often been plagued by allegations of vote-buying, ballot snatching, and manipulation of results.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has in the past pledged zero tolerance for financial inducement during elections.
However, repeated incidents continue to cast doubts on INEC’s capacity to ensure free and fair polls in the country.
Civil society organizations have also raised alarm about the corrosive effect of money politics on Nigeria’s democratic journey.
They argue that when candidates and officials are compromised, citizens lose faith in the democratic process.
The situation in Ogun State has already generated heated debate on social media, with many Nigerians demanding swift prosecution of those involved.
Some commentators insisted that unless culprits face real legal consequences, vote-buying will continue to undermine elections.
INEC headquarters in Abuja has yet to issue an official statement on the arrest.
Meanwhile, security agencies have confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that more details will be provided in due course.
The Ogun incident comes barely months before other crucial elections in Nigeria, raising concerns about the integrity of upcoming polls.
Political analysts say the arrest serves as both a warning and a reminder of the urgent reforms needed to clean up Nigeria’s electoral system.
With evidence circulating widely online, pressure is mounting on INEC and law enforcement to act decisively.
For now, Nigerians are watching closely to see whether this case becomes another forgotten scandal or a turning point in the fight against electoral corruption.
✅ Word count: ~460 words
📌 Viral 9-word headline:
PDP chieftain, INEC staff caught with cash in Ogun
Do you want me to also provide two more alternative viral headlines for this story, so you can use them across platforms?