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) to remove Professor Joash Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The association described the demand as an attempt to politicise religion and undermine a key national institution.
Northern CAN said the controversy over Amupitan’s position stems from criticisms linked to a legal brief in which he reportedly acknowledged concerns about challenges faced by Christians in Nigeria. The SCSN had called for his removal and prosecution, alleging compromised integrity.
In a statement issued on Thursday and jointly signed by Rev. Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of Northern CAN, and Bishop Mohammed Naga, Secretary-General, the Christian body questioned the motives behind the demand.
It asked who was sponsoring the campaign and why such interests were hiding under the platform of a religious organisation.
Northern CAN warned that using religion as a basis for questioning the integrity of public office holders is dangerous and capable of inflaming sectarian tensions.
The association emphasised that Amupitan, like all Nigerians, has a constitutional right to freedom of religion and that expressing concern over challenges facing one’s faith should not disqualify a person from public service.
The group said public office appointments should be judged on competence, integrity and national interest rather than religious affiliation.
It noted that many Muslims have previously served in sensitive national roles without similar scrutiny and urged Nigerians to focus on qualifications rather than faith.
Northern CAN expressed concern that the controversy may reflect deeper political calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The association warned against framing Nigeria’s political future strictly around religious identity, saying this could threaten national unity.
The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing a Christian as INEC chairman, describing the move as inclusive and supportive of national cohesion.
It urged Amupitan to remain focused on his constitutional duty to organise free, fair and credible elections, and not be distracted by sectarian debates.
Northern CAN also highlighted longstanding complaints of religious discrimination against Christians in appointments to strategic national offices.
The body recalled that the two immediate past INEC chairmen were Muslims from Northern Nigeria and cautioned against narratives suggesting that only adherents of a particular religion should lead the electoral commission.
The Christian association urged the SCSN to identify any individuals or groups behind the campaign for Amupitan’s removal, saying religious platforms should not be used to pursue political interests or intimidate public officials.
The Christian Association of Nigeria in the North and FCT has rejected calls for the removal of INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan.
The group described the demand as an attempt to politicise religion and undermine national institutions, stressing that competence and national interest should guide public office appointments ahead of the 2027 elections.
