Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Member representing Port Harcourt Federal Constituency 2 in the House of Representatives, Dr Chinyere Igwe, was Friday morning, arrested with $498,100 cash, along Aba Road Port Harcourt.
Confirming his arrest, the police said the lawmaker was arrested along with a list of people the monies were meant for.
Speaking on behalf of the Police Command in the state, Grace Iringe-Koko said Igwe was nabbed during a stop and search operation by operatives deployed to the Independent National Electoral Commission office along Aba Road in Port Harcourt.
He said the Assistant Inspector General of Police deployed to the state for elections, AIG Abutu Yaro, had ordered swift interrogation and arraignment of the lawmaker.
Reports say the lawmaker is a staunch supporter of the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
A statement issued later by the police read: “Police Officers from Rivers State Command deployed to INEC Headquarters Aba Road today 24/2/2023 at about 0245hrs, while on stop and search, arrested one Hon Chinyere Igwe, member House of Representatives representing Port Harcourt II Federal Constituency with a cash sum of $498,100 USD inside a bag in his car.
“Also recovered was a list for distribution of the money. The Assistant Inspector General of Police (Election) AIG Abutu Yaro, has ordered swift interrogation and arraignment in court.
“The Command urges all contestants and political parties to comply strictly with provisions of the Electoral Act and other relevant laws.”
