The Nigerian Police Force has confirmed that Hudu Ari, the suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, has been granted administrative bail while investigations continue into allegations of impropriety during the supplementary governorship election in the state. According to a statement released on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Ari is expected to report at the Police Headquarters every weekday while investigations are ongoing.
Ari had sparked controversy when he declared Aisha ‘Binani’ Dahiru of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the drama-filled poll while collation of results was still ongoing. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had nullified his decision and suspended him while President Muhammadu Buhari ordered a full investigation on the electoral commissioner and the security personnel that were around him when he made the declaration.
Before his arrest, Ari had granted an interview to the BBC where he stated that he did not regret his actions. He has been in police custody since Tuesday for questioning in connection to the election. The embattled REC is required to report to the police headquarters every weekday while investigations continue. INEC has since concluded the election and announced the incumbent governor, Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the authentic winner of the election.