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.
SCSN had earlier called for the immediate removal and prosecution of the INEC chairman, over a legal brief in which he reportedly acknowledged claims relating to persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
This came as Christian clerics operating under the umbrella of National Christian Alliance for Good Governance in Nigeria, NCAGG have rejected calls for the removal of Amupitan, describing the demand as undemocratic and ill-advised ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting in a statement, yesterday by Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph Hayab, and its Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, the Christian body questioned the motive behind the demand, asking who was sponsoring the call and why such interests were being pursued under the platform of a religious organisation.
Northern CAN cautioned that using religion as a basis for questioning the integrity of public office holders was dangerous and capable of inflaming sectarian tensions.
It commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing a Christian as INEC chairman, describing the decision as a demonstration of inclusivity and national unity. It also referenced the precedent under former President Goodluck Jonathan, who retained a northern Muslim as INEC chairman despite political pressures at the time.
