The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought two individuals, Esther Ashivelli Dawaki and Shehu Aliyu Fatange, before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
The arraignment, which took place on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, centers on a five-count charge involving conspiracy, money laundering, and cash transactions above the legally permitted threshold.
According to EFCC investigators, the suspects were allegedly linked to the handling of ₦26 million, suspected to have been set aside for vote buying during the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency bye-election in Kaduna held on August 16, 2025.
Their arrest followed the discovery of over ₦26.4 million in cash, which EFCC operatives recovered from a Toyota Corolla parked at a hotel believed to be used as a base for the illicit transaction.
During their court appearance, both defendants entered not guilty pleas. Justice Nwite subsequently ordered that Dawaki be remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre, while Fatange was sent to Kuje Correctional Centre.
The case has been adjourned until September 15, 2025, when a bail hearing will be conducted.
This case once again highlights Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against electoral malpractice and money laundering, with the EFCC intensifying efforts to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
