DSS Nabs Vote Buyer with “Ghana Must Go” Bags Stuffed Full of Cash at Ondo Governorship Election

The Department of State Services (DSS) has apprehended a suspected vote-buyer in Ondo State during the ongoing governorship election. The individual was reportedly caught with two large “Ghana Must Go” bags filled with cash, allegedly intended for vote-buying operations. This arrest underscores heightened efforts by security agencies to curb electoral malpractices and ensure a free and fair election.

Vote-buying has been a significant concern in Ondo State, with reports of political parties stockpiling funds and distributing cash, food items, and other essentials to sway voters. According to election monitors like Yiaga Africa, some parties have earmarked sums ranging from ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 per voter in various localities. They noted that this tactic is increasingly being executed through discreet transfers and indirect transactions to evade law enforcement.

This latest arrest aligns with broader measures to combat electoral corruption, as political leaders like Peter Obi have publicly urged citizens to resist vote-buying, emphasizing its detrimental impact on democracy. The governorship election features candidates such as Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the APC and Agboola Ajayi of the PDP, with over 1.7 million registered voters expected to participate.

The DSS has not yet disclosed further details about the arrest, but the incident highlights the challenges of maintaining electoral integrity amid widespread allegations of illicit practices. Observers continue to call for vigilance and accountability from security agencies and electoral bodies to uphold the credibility of the process.