The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has taken legal action against the suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner for Adamawa State, Hudu Yunusa-Ari. INEC has filed a six-count charge against Mr. Ari for his alleged actions during the governorship election in the state.
According to the statement released by Festus Okoye, the INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of Voter Education and Information, on Thursday, Mr. Ari is accused of usurping the powers of the returning officer during the election. It is alleged that on April 16, he prematurely declared Aisha Binani, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the election before the collation process was completed.
The charges have been filed at the Adamawa State High Court in Yola, as confirmed by Mr. Okoye in the statement.
During its regular weekly meeting, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reviewed the case file provided by the police regarding the alleged electoral offenses committed during the 2023 General Election. The case file included the actions of the suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, Barr. Hudu Yunusa-Ari.
After reviewing the case file, INEC found a prima facie case against Mr. Ari, which prompted the commission to take legal action. The charges against him were filed based on the established evidence and allegations.
The statement released by INEC mentioned that the commission received the case files from the Nigeria Police, indicating the conclusion of their investigation into the electoral offenses. It also highlighted that the issue concerning Barr. Hudu Yunusa-Ari’s conduct as the REC in Adamawa State was among the cases being addressed.
INEC continues to prioritize the prosecution of electoral offenders, ensuring accountability and upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
In accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has taken immediate action in response to the case involving Barr. Hudu Yunusa-Ari, the suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner for Adamawa State.
Based on the review of the case file provided by the police, which established a prima facie case against Mr. Ari, INEC has filed a six-count charge against him at the Adamawa State High Court in Yola. The trial is scheduled to commence on Wednesday, July 12, 2023.
Additionally, the statement issued by INEC mentioned that the commission is collaborating with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to ensure the diligent prosecution of other cases related to electoral offenses.
By working with relevant legal authorities and pursuing legal action, INEC demonstrates its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria.