Hudu Ari, the former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, who was recently dismissed for alleged electoral offenses, has raised concerns about not receiving a fair hearing before his removal.
In an interview with journalists in Bauchi, Ari stated that he had sent multiple letters to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to present his side of the story, but his letters were rejected.
He also mentioned that the tribunal handling the case between Aisha Binani and Ahmadu Fintiri had refused to accept his evidence.
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Ari maintained that he had strong evidence to support his position but was never given the opportunity to present it.
He showed documents he claimed were genuine result sheets and letters he had sent to INEC.
He said, “The dismissal is not my issue. The civil service operates under rules and procedures. There is a principle in law called the golden rule of natural justice, which states that one must be heard. Even God does not punish anyone without first sending messages, prophets, and scriptures.”
Ari expressed frustration over INEC’s refusal to accept his letters and the tribunal’s rejection of his evidence. He questioned, “Even as a judge, what can you say to that?”
Holding a copy of the Holy Quran, Ari stated, “I swear, everything I do is in line with the teachings of the Quran. We must remember the Day of Judgment.” He further alleged that some INEC staff had been compromised, beaten, and threatened during the 2023 elections.
Ari also claimed that he had been unfairly judged by the media and reiterated that he had no regrets about his actions, believing he was acting truthfully.
He added, “I can declare it now—she won the election against Fintiri,” and mentioned that he was currently consulting with family and friends to determine his next steps.
