By Tolúlopé Olátúnjí
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun to arrest and prosecute the former Adamawa State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mallam Hudu Yunusa Ari, asserting that delays in his arrest and possible trial promotes impunity and sets a dangerous precedent.
In a statement issued by the opposition party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba on Thursday, it highlighted Yunusa Ari’s alleged attempt to subvert democratic rule by illegally declaring the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate as the winner during the April 15, 2023, elections while collation of results was ongoing.
Also, the party emphasized that this action violated Section 1(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which prohibits any individual or group from taking control of the government except in accordance with constitutional provisions.
Ologunagba, stated that Yunusa Ari’s conduct amounted to a “civilian coup” that undermined national sovereignty, caused a crisis in Adamawa State, and threatened national peace and security.
Following his removal by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the lawful declaration of Governor Ahmed Fintiri as the elected governor, Yunusa Ari has reportedly been on the run.
Ologunagba noted that the High Court of Justice of Adamawa State issued a warrant for Yunusa Ari’s arrest on May 21, 2024, and the IGP’s office received the order on May 23, 2024. Despite this, there has been a delay in his apprehension and prosecution, which the PDP argues jeopardizes democracy and the rule of law.
The PDP warned that failure to promptly arrest and prosecute Yunusa Ari could encourage other public officers to act with impunity. The party called on the IGP to immediately comply with an existing court order and ensure Yunusa Ari faces justice, particularly amid concerns that he may attempt to flee the country.
“The PDP insists that Mallam Hudu Yunusa Ari must be made to face the full wrath of the law for his assault against our democracy,” Ologunagba concluded.
