Suspended Adamawa REC, Hudu Ari, arrested

The suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Adamawa State, Hudu Yunusa Ari, has reportedly been taken into police custody.

Ari found himself at the centre of a controversy after the supplementary election in Adamawa on April 15, 2023, when he declared Aisha ‘Binani’ Dahiru of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the dramatic poll while collation of results was still ongoing.

This led to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nullifying Ari’s decision and suspending him. At the same time, President Muhammad Buhari ordered a full investigation into the electoral commissioner and the security personnel present at the time of the declaration.

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Following this, INEC concluded the election and announced Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the authentic winner of the poll.

Security agencies were subsequently ordered to arrest and prosecute the embattled REC, whose whereabouts have been unknown for over two weeks since the controversy began.

A report by Channels Television said police source confirmed on Tuesday that Ari is now in police custody.

Iwok Iniobong

With years of experience in Nigerian journalism, Iniobong Iwok has built a reputation for deep political insight, compelling storytelling, and consistent, fact-driven reporting. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience reporting and writing incisive political analysis. Iniobong has interviewed key political figures across Nigeria and covered major national events, including the 2019 and 2023 general elections. A versatile journalist, he also has strong experience in education reporting and sector analysis. His work reflects a deep commitment to good governance and public accountability. Iniobong holds a B.Sc. in Sociology from the University of Ilorin and an M.Sc. in Sociology (Development Specialisation) from Lagos State University.