Sacked INEC REC Hudu Ari Seeks Fair Hearing Over Dismissal

Former INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Hudu Ari demands a fair hearing after his dismissal, questioning the process and seeking justice.

Hudu Ari, a former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State who was recently dismissed due to alleged electoral offenses, has raised concerns about not receiving a fair hearing prior to his removal.

While speaking to journalists in Bauchi, Ari asserted that he had sent multiple letters to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in an attempt to present his perspective, but these were dismissed. He also mentioned that the tribunal handling the case between Aisha Binani and Ahmadu Fintiri declined to consider his evidence.

Ari maintained that he possessed ample evidence to back up his stance, yet he was never given the opportunity to present his case. He showcased documents which he asserted were genuine result sheets, as well as correspondence he had sent to INEC.

He stated, “The dismissal is not my responsibility. The civil service operates under specific rules, procedures, and guidelines. Legally speaking, there’s a fundamental principle of natural justice known as the golden rule which dictates that individuals must be given an opportunity to present their case. Even God would never punish someone without first providing messages through prophets and scriptures.”

He inquired, “What do you make of this situation where INEC refused to accept my letters and the tribunal decided not to consider my evidence? Even if you were just an ordinary judge, how would you respond?”

While holding a copy of the Holy Quran, Ari stated, “Wallahi, everything I do is within the guidelines set by the Quran. We must always keep in mind the final day.”

Ari claimed that certain INEC staff members were compromised, assaulted, and intimidated during the 2023 electoral process. He expressed frustration about being judged by the media but insisted he had no regrets for his actions, stating he would repeat them if given another chance because he believed in their righteousness.

“I can go ahead and announce it now: she won the election against Fintiri,” said the dismissed REC. He added that he is currently consulting with family and friends to determine his next steps.