The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has no knowledge of the whereabouts of suspended Adamawa State Resident Electoral Commissioner Hudu Yunusa Ari.
INEC National Commissioner Festus Okoye revealed this on Friday’s Sunrise Daily on Channels Television.
“We do not know where he is because, after this particular incident, the Commission contacted him by letter and telephone. Okoye stated that he never returned any calls and never answered any calls.
“We requested that he report to the Commission on Sunday, but he did not appear; we requested that he report on Monday, but he did not appear. So far, he has not reported, and we are unaware of his whereabouts.”
Okoye added that the police are responsible for declaring Ari wanted for neglecting to appear before the commission or respond to its calls.
“Well, that falls under the jurisdiction of the Nigerian police.” If they believe his presence is crucial to the investigation and he cannot be located, it is their prerogative and discretion to declare him sought.
“We sent a letter to the Inspector General of Police and Secretary of the Federation’s Government. We have received a response from the Inspector General of Police, and an investigation has already been initiated.
“My understanding is that as soon as the Inspector General of Police concludes the investigation into the REC and all other individuals involved, and a prima facie case is established against the REC, the file will be made available to the commission, and the commission will begin prosecuting the REC,” he said.