The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has intensified its call for the immediate removal of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing the Federal Government of treating him as a sacred cow.
Controversial Legal Brief Sparks Outrage
In a strongly-worded statement released on Monday, November 24, 2025, MURIC's Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, questioned why the Federal Government has maintained silence regarding the serious allegations against the newly appointed INEC boss.
The controversy stems from accusations that Professor Amupitan authored a legal brief to the United States government alleging Christian genocide in Nigeria. This revelation first emerged three weeks ago, prompting immediate demands for his removal from office.
Growing Coalition Demands Action
MURIC is not alone in its demand for Professor Amupitan's removal. The organization highlighted that other prominent Islamic groups, including the Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) and the Da'wah Coordination Council of Nigeria (DCCN), have made similar calls.
The coalition of concerned organizations has expanded to include secular groups such as the Voice of Liberty Nigeria and the Concerned Citizens for Peace, Justice, and Democratic Integrity.
Professor Akintola emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that neither Professor Amupitan nor the Federal Government has denied the allegations regarding the controversial legal brief.
Federal Government's Silence Raises Questions
MURIC's statement expressed deep concern about the Federal Government's continued silence on what it describes as a sensitive national matter. Professor Akintola posed critical questions that many Nigerians are asking: "Is FG waiting for a chance to bury this matter when other burning issues overtake it? Is Amupitan a sacred cow?"
The human rights organization first demanded Professor Amupitan's removal in a press statement dated November 10, 2025. Despite the passage of two weeks, no action has been taken by the authorities.
MURIC characterized the legal brief as "false, controversial, divisive and mischievous" and expressed alarm that someone accused of such unpatriotic actions could remain in such a sensitive position overseeing Nigeria's electoral process.
The organization's persistent demands highlight the growing tension surrounding the appointment and the broader implications for Nigeria's democratic integrity and interfaith relations.
