The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has overruled the earlier declaration by the Resident Electiral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Prof. Hudu Yunus Ari announcing the APC candidate, Aishatu Binani as the winner of the gubernatorial election.
According to the electoral body the declaration by the Resident Electoral Commissioner when the process had not been concluded is a clear usurpation of power.
This was contained in a press release by Barr. Festus Okoye, the National Commissioner, Information and Voter Education.
The release reads thus:
The attention of the Commission has been drawn to a purported declaration of winner in the Adamawa Governorship election by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) even when the process has clearly not been concluded.
The action of the REC is a usurpation of the power of the Returning Officer. It is null, void and of no effect.
Consequently, the collation of results of the supplementary election is hereby suspended. The REC, Returning Officer and all involved are hereby invited to the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja immediately.
Detailed statement to follow shortly.
Barr. Festus Okoye
National Commissioner, Information &Voter Education