Prominent Islamic Leader Calls for Immediate Removal of INEC Chairman
Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, the National Chairman of the Council of Ulama of Jama'atu Izalatil Bid'ah Wa'ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), has issued a strong condemnation of the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The influential cleric described this appointment as "a risk of the highest order" during his address at the conclusion of the 33rd annual national seminar of JIBWIS, held at the Saddeqa Event Centre in Jos.
Muslim Community's Widespread Rejection of the Appointment
According to Sheikh Jingir, numerous Nigerian Muslims have expressed their firm opposition to Professor Amupitan's appointment due to his previous legal writings and alleged remarks that targeted the Muslim community. The cleric emphasized that INEC plays a crucial strategic role in Nigeria's democratic processes, making the neutrality of its leadership paramount. He specifically referenced Amupitan's past legal brief, which some groups claim attempted to justify allegations of genocide against Christians in Nigeria, though the Tinubu administration has consistently denied such claims exist in the country.
Sheikh Jingir raised pointed questions about the appointment, asking publicly, "Why is it that someone who abused Sheikh Usman Danfodio and Muslims was appointed INEC chairman?" He further criticized what he perceives as Amupitan's previous statements accusing Muslims of violence against Christians, arguing that such an individual should not be entrusted with sensitive national responsibilities that require impartiality.
Appeal to National Assembly for Intervention
The JIBWIS leader has called upon the National Assembly to take immediate action regarding this contentious appointment. He urged lawmakers to intervene and ensure that INEC is led by someone widely regarded as fair and neutral to maintain public trust in the electoral system. Jingir expressed concern over the legislative body's silence on the matter, suggesting that their inaction could undermine confidence in Nigeria's democratic institutions.
Sheikh Jingir elaborated on his concerns by stating, "I disagree with the person that went abroad to call for an attack on Nigeria, and yet the government of Muslim-Muslim takes the risk of appointing him as the head of the electoral umpire." He warned that placing a figure with such controversial background at the helm of INEC could pose serious risks to the credibility of future elections, including the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Broader Islamic Community Support for Removal
The Supreme Council for Sharia Law in Nigeria (SCSN) has echoed Sheikh Jingir's position, explaining why it will not accept or recognize any election conducted under Professor Amupitan's leadership. The council has described the INEC chairman as a direct threat to the integrity of Nigeria's democratic process, citing ongoing concerns about his past comments and actions. Sheikh Bashir Aliyu Umar, the Speaker of the council, confirmed in an interview with BBC that Nigerian Muslims would refuse to legitimize elections conducted with Amupitan as INEC chairman.
This growing opposition from Islamic organizations highlights deepening concerns about potential bias in electoral administration. The controversy emerges despite repeated denials from the Tinubu administration regarding claims of genocide in Nigeria, with the government yet to issue a public response to the mounting calls for Professor Amupitan's removal from his position as INEC chairman.
