Abuja — The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has firmly rejected calls by the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, describing the demand as dangerous, politicised, and capable of undermining national unity.
The SCSN had earlier called for the immediate removal and prosecution of the INEC chairman following a legal brief in which Amupitan reportedly acknowledged claims relating to the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
Reacting in a joint statement issued on Wednesday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph Hayab, and the Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, questioned the motive behind the demand, asking who was sponsoring the call and why it was being advanced under the guise of religion.
According to Northern CAN, using religion to challenge the integrity of a public office holder is reckless and could inflame sectarian tensions in an already fragile political climate.
The association stressed that Amupitan, like every Nigerian, enjoys the constitutional right to freedom of religion, noting that expressing concern over challenges faced by one’s faith does not amount to bias or disqualification from public office.
CAN further observed that several Muslims have previously held sensitive national positions while being openly associated with religious causes without facing similar scrutiny. It recalled that the two immediate past INEC chairmen were Muslims from Northern Nigeria, warning against narratives that seek to restrict leadership of the electoral body to adherents of a particular faith.
“Competence, integrity and professionalism — not religion — must remain the benchmark for public office,” the statement said, adding that anyone hiding behind a religious platform to pursue political or sectarian interests should come out openly.
Northern CAN commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing a Christian as INEC chairman, describing the move as a reflection of inclusivity and national unity. It also referenced the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who retained a northern Muslim as INEC chairman despite political pressure at the time.
The association advised the Shari’ah Council to clearly identify any individual or group behind the campaign against the INEC chairman, warning that religious bodies should not be used as cover to intimidate public officials or advance political agendas.
CAN also urged Prof. Amupitan to remain focused on his constitutional mandate of conducting credible elections and not be distracted by what it described as unnecessary controversy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Christian Clerics Back INEC Chairman
Similarly, Christian clerics under the umbrella of the National Christian Alliance for Good Governance in Nigeria (NCAGG) rejected the call for Amupitan’s removal, describing it as undemocratic and ill-advised.
In a statement signed by its National President, Dean Rev. Ozumba Nicodemus, the group said the demand lacked any substantive legal basis and could create needless division among Nigerians.
“We firmly believe that his wealth of experience as a constitutional lawyer will strengthen Nigeria’s electoral process,” Ozumba said, stressing that the independence of INEC must be protected from undue pressure.
The clerics urged the Shari’ah Council to reconsider its position and embrace dialogue that promotes democratic values, peace and national cohesion.
Northern CAN also expressed concern over what it described as emerging signals of a coordinated political agenda ahead of 2027, citing recent comments attributed to the Minister of Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, suggesting that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) could risk defeat if it abandons a Northern Muslim-Muslim ticket.
According to CAN, when viewed alongside sustained criticism of a Christian INEC chairman, such remarks raise concerns about attempts to weaken Christian confidence and participation in the political process.
The association warned against framing Nigeria’s political future along religious lines, insisting that democracy must be driven by competence, equity and national cohesion rather than sectarian considerations.
Comments