Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has alleged that suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, Hudu Yunusa-Ari, and his surety are on the run.
The commission told the Adamawa State High Court, Monday, that Hudu was evading arraignment in court.
INEC, represented by its counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, told the court, which was presided over by Justice Benjamin Manji Lawan, that the prosecution failed to arraign Hudu due to its inability to arrest him.
The electoral body had taken Hudu to court on charges of producing false electoral results, violating oath of neutrality, breach of duty, disorderly conduct at the election, inciting disturbance, and impersonating a public servant.
During the governorship election in Adamawa in March, the REC had usurped the authority of the Returning Officer and declared Aishatu Ahmed (Binani) of the All Progressives Congress as winner.
At the resumed sitting, Jacobs told the court that the defendant refused an invitation from the investigating police officer, following service of hearing notice.
The officer, Moses Jolujdo, confirmed to the court that the defendant and his surety had been evading arrest.
The court then granted an application for adjournment, fixing November 22, 2023, as the new date for Hudu’s arraignment.
Answering questions from newsmen after the court session, Jacobs said: “The defendant has been evasive. You can’t get him or arrest him. He is hiding.” `
He urged the police to intensify efforts at apprehending the REC.