EFCC Arrests 20 for Electoral Fraud in FCT Elections

On February 21, 2026, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested 20 suspects in connection with electoral fraud during the recently concluded local government elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The arrests took place across several locations, including Abaji (2 suspects), Gwagwalada (9 suspects), Kuje (4 suspects), and Kwali (4 suspects).

The EFCC's operations led to the recovery of N17,218,700, which was allegedly intended for vote buying. A significant portion of this amount, N13,500,000, was found in a car park beside a polling booth in the Kwali local government area.

The suspects face charges that will be brought to court upon the conclusion of investigations. The elections, which occurred across six area councils in the FCT, were marred by reports of inducement, with the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) documenting instances of financial offers ranging from N1,000 to N5,000 per voter, particularly in Gwagwalada and Kuje.