The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has 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 an attempt to politicise religion and undermine a key national institution.
The SCSN had earlier called for the sack and prosecution of the INEC chairman over a legal brief in which he allegedly acknowledged claims about the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
Reacting to the development, Northern CAN in a statement signed by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, and Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, described the call as dangerous and divisive, warning that it could inflame religious tensions and threaten national unity.
“Using religion as a weapon to question the integrity of public office holders is a dangerous trend that must be stopped,” the statement read. “Amupitan, like every Nigerian, has a constitutional right to freedom of religion. Expressing concerns over challenges faced by one’s faith does not amount to bias or disqualification from public service.”
The association noted that Muslims have previously held sensitive national positions, including INEC chairmanship roles, without similar scrutiny or controversy. It therefore urged critics to focus on competence and integrity, not religion, as the criteria for holding public office.
Northern CAN also commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing a Christian to head INEC, describing the move as a symbol of inclusivity and national balance. It cited the precedent set by former President Goodluck Jonathan, who retained a northern Muslim as INEC chairman despite political pressure at the time.
“Anyone hiding under a religious council to demand the removal of the INEC chairman for sectarian or political reasons should come out openly,” the statement added.
The group further expressed concern over what it described as emerging political agendas ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing recent remarks by Minister of Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, suggesting the All Progressives Congress (APC) might lose power if it abandons a northern Muslim-Muslim ticket.
According to Northern CAN, such rhetoric, combined with growing criticism of a Christian INEC chairman, raises fears of a deliberate effort to marginalize Christians in politics.
The association urged the Shari’ah Council to identify those behind the campaign against Amupitan and warned against using religious platforms for political purposes. It also advised the INEC chairman to remain focused on his constitutional duty of conducting credible and transparent elections.
Christian Clerics Back Amupitan
Similarly, the National Christian Alliance for Good Governance in Nigeria (NCAGG) has also dismissed calls for Amupitan’s removal, describing them as undemocratic and baseless.
In a statement signed by its National President, Dean Rev. Ozumba Nicodemus, NCAGG said the demand could fuel unnecessary division among Nigerians.
“We view this position as undemocratic and lacking any substantive basis. Such calls can create needless tension among peace-loving citizens,” Nicodemus stated.
He reaffirmed confidence in Prof. Amupitan’s leadership, describing him as a seasoned constitutional lawyer whose experience would strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system.
“The integrity and independence of INEC must be protected from undue pressure. We urge all groups to uphold democratic values and support a collaborative approach to nation-building,” the NCAGG president added.
