In a dramatic turn of events, the Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Hon Chinyere Igwe, a member of the House of Representatives representing Port Harcourt II Federal Constituency for alleged money laundering.
According to reports, police officers who were on a stop and search duty at the INEC Headquarters on Aba Road, Rivers State, made the arrest at about 2:45 am on Friday, February 24, 2023. During the search, a large sum of money totaling 498,100 USD was found in a bag inside the lawmaker’s car.
Sources reveal that the money was allegedly meant for vote-buying in the upcoming general elections. A list for the distribution of the cash was also reportedly recovered from the lawmaker.
Following the discovery, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Election, AIG Abutu Yaro fdc, has ordered swift interrogation of the lawmaker and his subsequent arraignment in court.
The arrest of Hon Chinyere Igwe has raised concerns about the involvement of politicians in vote-buying and other forms of electoral malpractices. It is also a reminder of the need for increased vigilance by law enforcement agencies in ensuring that the upcoming general elections are free, fair, and credible.
Meanwhile, the lawmaker remains in police custody as investigations continue into the alleged money laundering and vote-buying scheme. The Rivers State Police Command has assured the public that it will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is served.