By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has confirmed the arrest of a federal lawmaker, Mr Chinyere Igwe, for money laundering.
A statement signed by the spokesperson of the command, Ms Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed that the legislator was caught with almost $500,000 believed to be meant for inducing voters in the state in the presidential and federal parliamentary elections slated for tomorrow, Saturday, February 25, 2023.
According to the statement, Mr Igwe, who is seeking re-election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was apprehended by security officials deployed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday at about 2:45 am while on a stop and search operation along Aba Road.
It was stated that the House of Representatives member representing the Port Harcourt II constituency in the National Assembly was found with exactly $498,100 inside a bag in his car. Also recovered was a list for the distribution of the money.
The statement disclosed that a swift interrogation into the matter had been ordered by AIG Abutu Yaro, with a view to arraigning the suspect in court.
“The command urges all contestants and political parties to comply strictly with provisions of the Electoral Act and other relevant laws.
“Members of the public are encouraged to avail themselves of the following hotlines to report any observation they believe have potential to lead to crime or break down of law and order: 08032003514, 08098880134,” the notice said.
