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) seeking the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan.
The Shari’ah Council had demanded the immediate removal and prosecution of the INEC chairman, accusing him of compromised integrity following a legal brief in which he reportedly acknowledged claims of persecution and genocide against Christians in Nigeria.
Reacting in a statement on Thursday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, and its Secretary General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, questioned the motive behind the call.
The body warned against what it described as a dangerous politicisation of religion and asked for the reason why the sponsors of the campaign were pursuing such interests under the cover of a religious organisation.
The association described the demand as an attempt to undermine a key national institution, stressing that Prof. Amupitan has a constitutional right to freedom of religion.
It argued that expressing concern over challenges faced by one’s faith does not amount to bias or disqualification from public office.
Northern CAN noted that several Muslims had previously occupied sensitive government positions despite controversial religious antecedents, without being subjected to similar scrutiny.
It urged national actors to focus on competence, integrity and national interest rather than sectarian considerations.
The group warned that the controversy reinforces long-standing concerns about religious discrimination against Christians, particularly in appointments to strategic national offices.
It recalled that the two immediate past INEC chairmen were Muslims from Northern Nigeria, cautioning against narratives that suggest only adherents of a particular religion are qualified to lead the electoral body.
“Anyone hiding under the guise of the Shari’ah Council to demand the removal of the INEC chairman over political or sectarian interests should come out openly. Otherwise, the ploy has died naturally,” the statement added.
CAN commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing a Christian as INEC chairman despite being a Muslim, describing the move as an act of statesmanship and inclusivity. It compared the decision to that of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who retained a northern Muslim as INEC chairman in the interest of national stability.
The association advised the Shari’ah Council to openly identify any individual or group behind the campaign against the INEC chairman, warning that religious platforms must not be used as “cheap cover” for political interests or intimidation.
It also urged Prof. Amupitan not to be distracted by the controversy but to remain focused on his constitutional duty of conducting free, fair and credible elections.
