A former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, Hudu Ari, recently dismissed over alleged electoral offences, has raised concerns about not receiving a fair hearing before his removal.
Speaking to journalists in Bauchi, Ari claimed he had written multiple letters to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to present his case, but they were rejected. He also alleged that the tribunal handling the dispute between Aisha Binani and Ahmadu Fintiri refused to accept his evidence.
Ari insisted he possessed substantial proof but was never invited to present it. Displaying documents he asserted were authentic result sheets and letters sent to INEC, he maintained that his actions were justified.
He said, “The dismissal is not my problem. The civil service follows rules and procedures. In law, the golden rule of natural justice states that one must be heard. Even God does not punish without sending messages, prophets, and scriptures.”
He criticised INEC’s refusal to accept his letters and the tribunal’s decision to disregard his evidence. “Even as an ordinary judge, what do you say to that?” he asked.
Holding a copy of the Holy Quran, Ari declared, “Wallahi, whatever I do, I do within the bounds of the Quran. We must remember the last day.”
He further alleged that some INEC staff were compromised, beaten, and threatened during the 2023 election. Ari lamented being tried by the media and insisted he had no regrets, stating he would act the same way again, as he believed he upheld the truth.
“I can even announce it now—she won the election against Fintiri,” he said, adding that he is consulting family and friends to determine his next steps.