Shariah Council Denies Mobilizing Muslims Against INEC Chairman Amid Resignation Calls
The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has issued a strong denial of allegations circulating on social media that it directed Muslims to embark on prayers for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan. In a statement released by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, the council described these claims as completely false and misleading, firmly distancing itself from reports that it had threatened elections would not proceed if its purported demands were not met.
Council Rejects False Narratives and Political Manipulation
"At no time did the council issue any directive, statement, or call of such nature," the statement emphasized. "These fabrications are not only false but are clearly intended to mislead the public, create unnecessary tension, and drag the council into the murky and often divisive waters of partisan political contestation." The council stressed that it is a reputable religious body dedicated to promoting justice, equity, moral rectitude, and peaceful coexistence, operating above partisan interests and consistently maintaining a principled distance from political manipulation that could undermine national stability.
Reaffirmation of Resignation Calls Based on Alleged Bias
However, the SCSN reaffirmed its earlier position that the INEC chairman should either resign or be relieved of his duties, citing serious concerns over what it described as prejudicial views against Islam and Muslims. The council clarified that this stance is not driven by political bias or sectarian considerations but is based on concerns arising from the INEC chairman's actions and dispositions, including views allegedly expressed in a widely circulated legal brief.
"This stance is not driven by political bias or sectarian considerations; rather, it is grounded in serious concerns arising from his actions and dispositions, which have demonstrated a clear prejudice against Islam and Muslims, as documented in his widely circulated legal brief," the statement explained. "In any rational and just society, such expressed beliefs and sentiments are fundamentally inconsistent with the principles of neutrality, integrity, and patriotism required of a holder of so sensitive a national office."
Call for Public to Disregard False Information
The council urged the general public, particularly members of the Muslim Ummah and the media, to disregard the false narratives being circulated and to rely only on official communications issued through its recognized channels. "The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria remains committed to its mission of fostering a just, peaceful, and prosperous society where all citizens are free to practice their religion without fear or discrimination," the statement added. "It will not allow itself to be used as a tool for political manipulation, nor will it be distracted from its core objectives by the antics of mischief-makers."
