REC Yunusa-Ari in our custody, undergoing interrogation

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of the suspended Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Resident Electoral Commissioner in Adamawa State, Hudu Yunusa-Ari.

The Force spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the police Election Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Team arrested Yunusa-Ari on Tuesday in Abuja.

In a statement, Adejobi said Yunusa-Ari is currently being questioned in police custody.

Yunusa-Ari caused controversy when he declared Aisha Binani as the winner of the supplementary governorship election in Adamawa State while collation was ongoing.

His action was, however, annulled by INEC which announced Governor Ahmadu Fintiri as the winner of the election.

Following his action, Yunusa-Ari had gone into hiding to evade arrest.

Confirming his arrest, Adejobi said others involved in the saga are being interrogated by the police team.

A statement by Adejobi reads: “Barrister Ari, who was arrested by the Police Election Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Team in Abuja on Tuesday 2nd May 2023, is currently in Police custody and is being grilled to ascertain the motives and motivations behind his alleged improper actions during the supplementary elections in Adamawa State.

“The Inspector-General of Police has given clear assurance that every individual involved/indicted in the matter will be apprehended and investigated in line with the provisions of the law for possible prosecution.

“The Inspector-General of Police has assured of the commitment of the Force to ensuring that justice is served in this case and that all guilty parties are brought to justice.”