Former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Adamawa State, Barr Hudu Ari, recently made headlines after insisting that the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general elections in the state, Senator Aisha Dahiru Binani, was the rightful winner of the election. This statement comes just days after the National Assembly approved his dismissal, adding a layer of controversy to the already heated political landscape in the region.
Ari’s claim of Binani’s victory was met with skepticism and scrutiny, especially since he had been suspended previously for prematurely declaring her as the winner while the collation of votes was still underway. Despite facing backlash and accusations of bias, Ari remained steadfast in his assertion, citing documentary evidence to support his stance.
In a candid conversation with journalists at his residence in Bauchi, Ari, holding a copy of the Holy Qur’an, swore by its sanctity to emphasize the veracity of his claims. He recounted the pressure he faced to declare incumbent Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner, highlighting the ethical dilemma he encountered during the electoral process.
Allegations of Irregularities and Misconduct
Ari’s narrative took a dramatic turn as he delved into the alleged irregularities and misconduct that marred the governorship election in Adamawa State. He accused the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Mahmud Yakubu, and the Election Tribunal of dismissing crucial evidence that exposed malpractices during the electoral process.
The former REC recounted a disturbing incident involving his Head of ICT, Bala Aji, who he claimed had surreptitiously handed over crucial election documents to the Governor of Adamawa State. This breach of protocol, coupled with other instances of misconduct, painted a grim picture of the electoral integrity in the region.
According to Ari, his attempts to address these discrepancies were met with resistance and apathy from higher authorities, leaving him disillusioned and frustrated with the system. The blatant disregard for electoral ethics and the lack of accountability underscored the challenges faced by election officials in upholding transparency and fairness in the democratic process.
Legal Ramifications and Personal Reflections
As Ari grappled with the aftermath of his dismissal and the ensuing media scrutiny, he expressed a mix of resignation and defiance. While contemplating his next steps, including the possibility of seeking legal recourse, he lamented the tarnishing of his reputation and the lack of due process in handling his case.
The personal toll of being embroiled in a high-stakes political controversy was evident in Ari’s words, reflecting the human side of a seasoned election official caught in the crossfire of power struggles and institutional failures. His sense of duty to uphold the integrity of the electoral process clashed with the harsh realities of political machinations and bureaucratic inertia.
In the face of adversity, Ari’s unwavering commitment to truth and justice shone through, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals striving to preserve the sanctity of democracy. As the dust settled on the tumultuous aftermath of the Adamawa guber election, the echoes of Ari’s resolute stand reverberated through the corridors of power, challenging the status quo and demanding accountability for the sake of a fair and free electoral system.
