The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has firmly rejected demands by the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) for the immediate removal of Professor Joash Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a strongly worded statement issued today and jointly signed by Northern CAN Chairman Rev. Joseph John Hayab and Secretary-General Bishop Mohammed Naga, the body described the SCSN's call as a "dangerous attempt to politicise religion" and to undermine a critical national institution.
The controversy stems from SCSN's renewed push, made during its annual pre-Ramadan lecture on January 28, where its President, Sheikh Bashir Umar, declared that Muslims nationwide would not recognise or legitimise any elections conducted under Amupitan's leadership.
SCSN cited a legal brief previously authored by Amupitan that referenced allegations of a "Christian genocide" in Nigeria, a claim repeatedly dismissed by the Federal Government—as evidence of bias and compromised integrity.Northern CAN countered that such demands appear motivated by hidden political interests rather than genuine religious concerns.
The statement questioned: "Who is sponsoring this campaign, and why hide behind a religious platform to pursue political agendas or intimidate public officials?" It urged SCSN to openly identify any individuals or groups backing the effort, insisting that religious bodies must not serve as "cheap cover" for partisan objectives.
The Christian body emphasised that public office, including the INEC chairmanship, should be judged on competence, integrity, and adherence to constitutional duties, not on religious affiliation. "Are they suggesting that only Muslims should serve as INEC chairman?" the statement asked rhetorically.
It affirmed Professor Amupitan's constitutional right to freedom of religion and called on him to remain undistracted, focusing instead on delivering free, fair, and credible elections as mandated by law.
This development highlights rising interfaith tensions in the lead-up to future electoral cycles, including the 2027 general elections.
Professor Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Jos, was appointed INEC Chairman in October 2025 following the tenure of his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu.
Northern CAN's response has drawn support from various quarters, with observers noting it as a defence of institutional independence amid attempts to frame electoral leadership through a religious lens.
The group reiterated its commitment to national unity and urged all stakeholders to prioritise patriotism over divisive rhetoric.
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
No comments
Post a Comment
Kindly drop a comment below.
(Comments are moderated. Clean comments will be approved immediately)
Advert Enquires - Reach out to us at NigerianEye@gmail.com