The trial of the suspended State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Adamawa State, Hudu Ari, faced a setback as he reportedly collapsed, leading to his inability to appear in court.

The High Court in Adamawa State, presided over by Hon. Justice Benjamin M. Lawan, received a letter from the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) citing Ari’s ill health as the reason for his absence.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Suleiman Usman, informed the court that despite making arrangements, Ari could not be produced in court due to his health condition. Usman presented a medical report from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) as evidence of Ari’s health challenges.

The AGF’s letter directed the court to temporarily stay Ari’s prosecution pending the determination of an appeal filed by APC Governorship Candidate Aishatu Binani before the Court of Appeal Abuja Division.

During the court session, the prosecution’s counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, revealed that Ari collapsed on December 15, 2023, while preparing to appear in court and was subsequently taken to ATBUTH for medical attention. Jacobs expressed concern over Ari’s numerous letters and motions aimed at delaying the trial, urging the court to issue a warrant of arrest against the defendant.

However, the court declined the request in the AGF’s letter and warned that Ari’s actions were pushing the court to its limits.