The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory has strongly rejected a call by the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) for the removal of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan.
The controversy stems from the SCSN's demand for Amupitan's immediate sack and prosecution, citing what it described as compromised integrity. The council pointed to a legal brief in which Amupitan allegedly acknowledged claims of persecution and genocide against Christians in Nigeria—a position the group says conflicts with the federal government's stance and raises doubts about his neutrality ahead of the 2027 general elections. SCSN President Sheikh Bashir Umar warned that Muslims would not recognise or legitimise any polls conducted under Amupitan's leadership, framing his tenure as a threat to democratic credibility.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, Northern CAN Chairman Rev. Joseph John Hayab and Secretary-General Bishop Mohammed Naga dismissed the demand as dangerous, unjustified, and a clear attempt to politicise religion while undermining confidence in a vital national institution. They questioned the motives behind the call, asking who was sponsoring it and why such interests were being cloaked under a religious platform.
The group insisted that public office holders should be judged on competence, integrity, and commitment to national duty—not religious affiliation. They highlighted that previous INEC chairmen, including Professors Attahiru Jega and Mahmood Yakubu—both Muslims from the north—served without similar objections from Christians, and warned against narratives that would restrict leadership of the electoral body to one faith.
Northern CAN also praised President Bola Tinubu for appointing a Christian to the position, viewing it as a step toward inclusivity and unity. They urged Amupitan to stay focused on delivering free, fair, and credible elections, while calling on the Shari’ah Council to openly identify any hidden political actors driving the campaign.
The rejection has been echoed by other Christian groups, including the National Christian Alliance for Good Governance in Nigeria (NCAGG), who described the demand as undemocratic and ill-timed. The episode underscores persistent religious sensitivities in Nigeria's political landscape, particularly as the country approaches future elections.
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