Shari’ah Council Speaks On Organizing Prayer Call For INEC Chairman Amupitan’s Removal

The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria has rejected claims circulating online that it asked Muslims to pray for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan.

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Naija News reports that the council made its position known on Monday in Kaduna through its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba-Ahmad, after reports spread on social media suggesting that such a directive had been issued.

According to the council, it had received several enquiries over the reports, which it described as false and lacking any official backing. It stated clearly that it never at any time instructed Muslims to hold prayers aimed at removing the INEC chairman, and urged the public to ignore the claims.

The group explained that the information being shared online did not come from its recognised communication channels, warning that some individuals were using anonymous platforms to mislead people and create confusion.

It added that the reports appeared to be an attempt to drag the religious body into political matters and stir tension among Nigerians. The council said it would not allow itself to be used in such a way or be pulled into political disputes.

While denying the alleged prayer directive, the organisation restated its earlier view on the leadership of the electoral body. It maintained that the INEC chairman should step down or be removed, pointing to concerns about fairness and conduct.

The council said its position was not based on politics or religious bias, but on what it described as actions that raised questions about neutrality, especially in a country with different religious and ethnic groups.

It also noted that anyone occupying such a sensitive national office is expected to act in a way that reflects balance and fairness to all citizens.