There is a sharp dispute between leading Muslim and Christian organizations over the neutrality of Nigeria’s top election official, Prof. Joash Amupitan.
The crisis erupted when the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria used its prominent Annual Pre-Ramadan platform to demand the immediate removal and prosecution of Independent National Electoral Commission Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan. The council alleged that Amupitan’s integrity is compromised, citing a legal document in which he previously acknowledged claims of Christian persecution in Nigeria.
“His continued presence in office poses a serious threat to our democracy,” stated SCSN President Sheikh Bashir Umar, warning that the Muslim community might not recognize elections conducted under his leadership. The Muslim Rights Concern quickly echoed the demand, amplifying pressure on the electoral body.
However, in a swift and firm rebuttal, the Christian Association of Nigeria across Nigeria’s northern states and the capital condemned the move as a dangerous politicization of faith. “This demand is unjustified and sets a very dangerous precedent,” a Northern CAN spokesperson stated.
“Public officials must be judged on competence and performance, not religious affiliation. Attempts to remove an officer on such grounds erode public trust in our national institutions.”
