- REC’s Bold Claim: Hudu Ari insists Senator Binani won the Adamawa election.
- Evidence Ignored? Ari alleges INEC and the Tribunal dismissed his evidence.
- Pressure Allegations: Claims pressure was exerted to declare Ahmadu Fintiri as the winner.
- ICT Head Accusations: Ari accuses the ICT head of misconduct and aiding election irregularities.
- Next Steps: Ari is consulting on potential legal action.
The Allegations: What Exactly Happened?
Hudu Ari, speaking with journalists in Bauchi, didn’t mince words. He stated under oath (by the Holy Qur’an) that he acted in good faith and according to election guidelines. However, he pointed fingers at several alleged irregularities that he believes skewed the election results.
Key Accusations Against INEC Official
Ari’s most explosive claim involves Bala Aji, the ICT head of INEC in Adamawa State. He alleges that Aji:
- Handed over approximately 20,000 election documents to the Governor of Adamawa State.
- Misappropriated election papers.
- Was caught distributing money (in foreign currency!) to INEC staff on election day.
- Was allegedly interfering with BVAS machines
Ari claims he reported these incidents to INEC headquarters, expecting swift action. However, he alleges that his report was “swept under the carpets”.
“My Evidence Was Ignored!”
The dismissed REC is adamant that he wasn’t given a fair hearing. He claims that all his evidence, which he believes proves Binani’s victory, was disregarded by both INEC and the Election Tribunal.
What’s Next for Hudu Ari?
Ari says he’s now consulting with his family to determine his next course of action. He’s considering taking legal action to challenge his dismissal and clear his name, which he feels has been tarnished by the media trial. He vehemently denies allegations of collecting N2 billion from any politician.
The Bigger Picture: Adamawa Politics
This controversy is unfolding against a backdrop of intense political rivalry in Adamawa State. The election was already marred by drama when Ari prematurely declared Binani the winner, a move that was swiftly rejected by INEC. This latest twist adds even more fuel to the fire and raises serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process. The stakes are high, and the battle for Adamawa is far from over.
A Quick Look at Adamawa State Politics
Adamawa State, located in northeastern Nigeria, has a diverse population and a history of competitive politics. It’s known for its agricultural resources and its strategic location bordering Cameroon. The state has seen its share of political turbulence, and this election controversy is just the latest chapter in its ongoing story. For more background on Adamawa’s political landscape, you can check out resources like Premium Times’ Adamawa coverage.
