The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has taken legal action against Hudu Yunusa-Ari, a suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Adamawa State.
INEC filed a six-count charge against Yunusa-Ari at the High Court in Yola, the state capital.
The decision to press charges came after INEC reviewed the case file provided by the police, which established a prima facie case against him.
According to INEC’s spokesperson, Festus Okoye, the electoral body is committed to ensuring the diligent prosecution of cases in collaboration with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
The trial for Yunusa-Ari is scheduled to commence on Wednesday, 12th July 2023, at the Adamawa State High Court in Yola.
Yunusa-Ari found himself in the midst of controversy following the supplementary election held in Adamawa on April 15, 2023. During the collation of results, he announced Aisha ‘Binani’ Dahiru of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner.
However, INEC nullified his decision, leading to his suspension, and President Muhammadu Buhari ordered a thorough investigation into the matter.
Subsequently, INEC concluded the election and declared Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the rightful winner of the eventful poll.
The Nigeria Police Force later arrested Yunusa-Ari due to his actions during the governorship election in Adamawa.