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The Adamawa State Government has refuted the recent assertion made by the dismissed Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Hudu Yunusa Ari, that Senator Aisha Binani emerged victorious in the 2023 governorship election in the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday, February 9, 2025, Solomon Kumangar, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Strategy, condemned Ari's repeated claims, indicating that the former REC is not legally empowered to declare any election results.
"The provisions of the Electoral Act are explicit only a returning officer, who is an ad-hoc staff of INEC, is authorized to announce election results. Hudu Ari's assertion is merely a reckless attempt to alter the narrative," Kumangar remarked.
He further pointed out that Ari, who is currently evading capture, has failed to present any evidence to substantiate his claim, observing that the actions of the ex-REC in 2023 breached his oath of office.
"Hudu was recorded on video seeking support for a candidate and erroneously claiming he had directives from superiors. Yet, he has not offered any proof to support his unlawful declaration," Kumangar stated.
The government also urged Ari to cease his concealment and confront the legal repercussions of his actions, as there is an ongoing case against him in the Adamawa State High Court. "Instead of disseminating misinformation, Hudu should come forward to the court.
If he genuinely stands by his claims, he has the chance to validate them through legal means," the statement concluded.
