In a dramatic turn of events, security operatives on Saturday reportedly apprehended James Onoja, the council chairman of Igalamela Local Government Area in Kogi State. The arrest was made on charges of possessing ammunition and a substantial amount of cash, both neatly packed in ‘Ghana-must-go’ bags.
Sources indicate that the seized money and ammunition were purportedly intended for use during the ongoing elections in the state. A video circulating on social media captured the suspects, including the council chairman, seated on the ground near an army checkpoint. In the footage, they were seen expressing remorse and pleading for forgiveness.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Kogi State, William Ovye, did not respond to inquiries regarding the incident as of the time of this report.
Amidst the unfolding situation, reports suggest that the elections in Kogi State have been marred by various allegations of vote-buying, accompanied by a noticeable low voter turnout. Dino Melaye, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has reportedly called for the cancellation of elections conducted in five local government areas in the state.
As the electoral process continues, citizens are closely monitoring developments and awaiting official statements from relevant authorities regarding the arrest of the Igalamela Local Government Area council chairman and any subsequent actions taken in response to the alleged misconduct.