Sharia Council denies calling for INEC chairman’s removal

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (SCSN) has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating on social media alleging that it directed Muslims to embark on prayers for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Joash Amupitan.

In a statement, the council said the claims, attributed to anonymous and unofficial social media handles, were fabrications aimed at misleading the public and dragging the organisation into partisan political controversy.

The statement, signed by the Secretary-General, Malam Nafi’u Baba-Ahmad, stressed that at no time did the council issue any directive, statement or call urging Muslims to pray for the removal of the INEC chairman or threaten that elections would not hold.

“The council categorically dissociates itself from these claims in their entirety. These reports are false and clearly intended to create unnecessary tension and confusion,” the statement said.

SCSN urged members of the public, particularly the Muslim Ummah and the media, to disregard the reports and rely only on official communications issued through its recognised channels.

However, the council reaffirmed its earlier position regarding the conduct of the INEC chairman, maintaining that he should either resign or be relieved of his duties.

It explained that its position was not driven by political or sectarian bias, but by concerns over actions and dispositions it said were inconsistent with the neutrality, integrity and patriotism required of such a sensitive national office.

“In any rational and just society, such expressed beliefs and sentiments are fundamentally inconsistent with the principles guiding the office,” the council added.

The SCSN further emphasised that it remains a reputable religious organisation committed to justice, equity and peaceful coexistence, and would not allow itself to be used as a tool for political manipulation.

The council reiterated its commitment to fostering a just and peaceful society where all citizens are free to practise their religion without fear or discrimination, while maintaining a principled distance from partisan politics.