The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has suspended the REC Resident Election Commissioner in Adamawa, Hudu Yunusa Ari.
The action follows the REC’s controversial statement on Sunday following the by-election.
Although only returning officers were responsible for announcing the results, Ari declared the All Progressive Congress, APC, gubernatorial candidate Aisha Dahiru Binani the winner.
The development has sparked outrage in the state and across the country, with Governor Ahmadu Fintiri accusing the REC of working for a gang.
On Monday, the National Election Arbitration Headquarters ordered Ari to stay away from the commission’s office in Yola, the state capital. A letter dated 17 April 2023 and signed by INEC Secretary Rose Oriaran-Anthony directed the Administrative Secretary in Adamawa to take charge.
“I hereby convey the Commission’s decision that you (Barr. Hudu Yunusa Ari), Resident Electoral Commissioner, Adamawa State should stay away from the Commission’s office immediately until further notice.
“The Administrative Secretary has been directed to take full charge of INEC, Adamawa State, with immediate effect,”
The letter noted.
