Due to the repeated failures to appear in court for arraignment, an Adamawa State High Court has issued an arrest warrant for former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Hudu Yusnusa-Ari.
The order comes amidst allegations of electoral misconduct during the last governorship election in the state.
Hudu, who served as the REC for Adamawa during the said election, faces charges related to declaring a wrong winner prematurely, a move deemed inappropriate as the electoral process had not concluded, and he lacked the authority to make such declarations.
Despite being suspended by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and subsequently charged to court, Hudu has consistently evaded court summons, hindering the progress of the prosecution.
In response to this evasion, the Adamawa State Government initiated legal action against Hudu. However, his persistent absence prompted Justice Benjamin Manji Lawan of the Adamawa State High Court to issue an arrest warrant against him.
The warrant, issued during a ruling on the application by the Adamawa State Government, directs the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to apprehend Hudu and bring him before the court without delay.
Counsel to the complainant, L. D. Nzadon, cited Section 20 Subsection (1j) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) 2018 in urging the court to take action, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations against Hudu.
The issuance of the arrest warrant underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for electoral misconduct. It serves as a reminder that no individual is above the law, and those accused of wrongdoing will be held accountable for their actions.
