By Uzair Adam
The suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Adamawa State, Barrister Hudu Yunusa Ari, has appealed to the Adamawa State High Court to adjourn the case against him indefinitely.
During a hearing on Thursday, Ari, through his counsel, M. Tijanni, submitted an application requesting the court to stay proceedings in the case pending a decision on his appeal filed at the Court of Appeal, Yola Division.
The Daily Reality gathered that the application, dated January 21, 2025, urged the court to put the trial on hold.
However, the state’s counsel, Chief L. D. Nzadon, strongly opposed the plea, describing it as a challenge to the rule of law and the administration of criminal justice.
He argued that the law does not permit such applications in criminal matters and called on the court to dismiss Ari’s request.
Following arguments from both parties, Justice Benjamin Manji Lawan adjourned the case to January 30, 2025, for a ruling on the application.
Ari’s legal troubles stem from his controversial actions during the 2023 governorship election in Adamawa State. While serving as INEC REC, he declared a winner before the collation process was concluded, bypassing the Returning Officer’s authority.
The incident sparked widespread criticism and led to his suspension by the Federal Government under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
He now faces charges for the alleged electoral offence.