A man, Kamara Bawah, has been arrested in connection with a dramatic ballot snatching incident during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Walewale parliamentary primary re-run on Monday, 9 September 2024.

Police reports indicate the suspect seized multiple ballot papers and attempted to flee the scene.

In the ensuing chaos, he allegedly destroyed several ballots before being apprehended. Law enforcement officers had to fire warning shots to regain control of the situation.

Currently in police custody, Bawah faces charges for damaging election materials. Authorities have bolstered security in Walewale and surrounding areas to maintain public order.

Following the incident, the Electoral Commission (EC) has declared the primary, which involved Dr Tia Mahama Kabiru, an advisor to the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and the incumbent MP, Hajia Lariba Zuweira Abudu, null and void.

The matter has been referred to the NPP leadership, who are expected to reschedule the primary and announce a new date before the deadline for nominations for the December 7, 2024, parliamentary elections.