INEC writes IGP Baba to prosecute Adamawa REC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has written the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, to investigate and prosecute the Adamawa Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Hudu Yunusa-Ari for illegally declaring APC gubernatorial flag bearer Aishatu Dahiru, winner in Saturday’s supplementary elections.

INEC disclosed this development on Tuesday via its official Twitter handle.

“At its meeting today, 18th April 2023, the Commission discussed matters arising from the Adamawa Governorship election and decided to: Write to the Inspector General of Police for the immediate investigation and possible prosecution of Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, Barr. Hudu Yunusa Ari.”

On Monday, INEC had suspended Mr Yunusa-Ari, according to a letter dated April 17, 2023, and signed by the commission’s secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony.

In the letter titled, ‘Commission’s Directive to Stay Away from INEC, Adamawa State’, INEC said, “I hereby convey the commission’s decision that you ( Hudu Yunusa-Ari), Resident Electoral Commissioner, Adamawa State, should stay away from the commission’s office in Adamawa State immediately until further notice. The administrative secretary has been directed to take full charge of INEC, Adamawa State, with immediate effect.”

On Saturday, Mr Yunusa-Ari had declared Ms Dahiru winner of the poll while the results collation from some local government areas had yet to be concluded.

The INEC headquarters declared his action null and void, suspended the result collation process, and directed him and others involved to report to Abuja.

INEC spokesperson, Festus Okoye, confirmed the letter in an interview in Abuja.

“The REC was directed to report today (Monday). We are still expecting him,” said Mr Okoye.