SSS arrests INEC official for demanding bribes before releasing PVCs to eligible voters

The staff, a security guard with the electoral body, was arrested by the SSS for allegedly extorting eligible voters in the state.

Tosin Ajuwon • June 21, 2022

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A staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers State has been arrested by operatives of the State Security Service (SSS).

The staff, a security guard with the electoral body, has been placed in the custody of the SSS for allegedly extorting eligible voters in the state.

Spokesperson for INEC in Rivers state, Geraldine Ekelemu, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Tuesday.

Ms Ekelemu said the staff was nabbed for allegedly extorting unsuspecting members of the public. However, she did not reveal the name of the staff.

Peoples Gazette learnt that the INEC staff had been extorting those visiting the commission’s office to register for the ongoing Permanent Voters’ Card (PVC).

It was gathered that the INEC staff was attached to the office of the commission in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Ms Ekelemu noted that INEC has zero tolerance for acts of extortion by its staff, adding that the electoral body would ensure the SSS carries out a thorough investigation.

The INEC spokesperson in the state advised members of the public to avoid acts of desperation that could render them vulnerable to fraudsters.

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