Northern CAN rejects calls for removal of INEC Chairman Amupitan by SCSN, warns against politicising religion

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has strongly rejected recent demands for the removal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, describing the calls as an attempt to politicize religion and undermine a key national institution.

The call for Amupitan’s removal was made by the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN), which alleged that INEC chairman’s past comments and writings showed religious bias, and warned that Muslims would not recognize elections conducted under his leadership.

Reacting in a statement on Thursday January 29, 2026, Northern CAN leaders including Chairman Rev. Joseph John Hayab and Secretary General Bishop Mohammed Naga questioned the motives behind the demand and asked who was sponsoring it, stressing that using religion to discredit public office holders is dangerous and divisive.

Northern CAN urged that Professor Amupitan, like all Nigerians, has a constitutional right to freedom of religion, and expressing concern about challenges facing one’s faith should not disqualify anyone from public service.

The group pointed out that Muslims have previously served in sensitive national roles without similar scrutiny, and urged Nigerians to focus on competence, integrity and national interest, rather than sectarian considerations.

The Christian body also expressed concern that the controversy may reflect deeper political agendas ahead of 2027 general election, and warned against framing Nigeria’s political future strictly around religious identity, saying this could threaten national unity.

Northern CAN commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing a Christian as INEC chairman, stating the decision demonstrated inclusivity and national cohesion.

The association further urged Professor Amupitan to remain focused on his constitutional mandate to deliver free, fair and credible elections, and not be distracted by controversy.

Meanwhile, groups allied with the Shari’ah Council such as Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) have reiterated their own calls for Amupitan’s removal, arguing his retention could undermine the credibility of upcoming elections.

-9News Nigeria.