Binani defeated Fintiri at 2023 guber poll – Sacked Adamawa REC, Ari insist

Former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, Hudu Ari, who was recently dismissed over alleged electoral misconduct, has claimed he was not given a fair hearing before his removal.

Speaking to journalists in Bauchi, Ari alleged that despite sending several letters to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to present his side of the story, the commission refused to accept them.

He also expressed frustration over the election tribunal handling the case between Aisha Binani and Ahmadu Fintiri, stating that his evidence was not considered.

Ari maintained that he had substantial proof to support his actions during the controversial governorship election but was never given the opportunity to present them. He displayed documents he claimed were authentic result sheets, along with copies of letters sent to INEC.

He said, “The dismissal is not my problem. The civil service is governed by civil service rules, procedures, and services. In law, there is what we call the golden rule of natural justice which says that you must be heard. Even God will never punish anybody without sending the messages, the prophets, and the scriptures.”

“The refusal of INEC to collect my letters and then the tribunal said they are not using my evidence. Even as an ordinary judge, what do you say to that?” he asked.

Holding a copy of the Holy Quran, Ari said, “Wallahi, whatever I do, I do it within the bounds of the Quran. We have to remember the last day.”

Ari also alleged that some of the INEC staff were compromised, beaten, and threatened during the 2023 electoral process. He lamented that he had been tried by the media and emphasised that he had no regrets for his actions, adding that he would act the same way again, as he believed he was on the side of truth.

“I can even announce it now, she won the election against Fintiri,” the dismissed REC stated, adding that he is currently consulting with family and friends to decide on his next course of action.