The Supreme Council for Shari'ah in Nigeria (SCSN) has reportedly renewed its demand for the removal of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that it may not recognise the outcome of the 2027 general elections if he remains in office.
The Council reportedly made its position known on November 8, 2026, insisting that Amupitan's continued leadership of the electoral commission could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The development has generated fresh political and religious debate as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Why Is the Sharia Council Demanding His Removal?
The Council's concerns reportedly centre on a legal brief attributed to Amupitan before his appointment as INEC chairman.
The document allegedly discussed claims of Christian genocide and persecution in Nigeria, an issue that has generated considerable controversy within the country.
The Sharia Council has questioned his credibility and neutrality, arguing that someone occupying the position of INEC chairman must enjoy the confidence of Nigerians across religious and ethnic backgrounds.
The Council has also raised concerns about alleged corruption within INEC's leadership and questions surrounding the credibility of the voters' register. However, these allegations have not been independently established as facts.
The Council maintains that its objections are based on concerns about character, conduct and credibility rather than opposition to Christians occupying public offices.
CAN Opposes the Demand
The controversy has also attracted reactions from Christian organisations.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), particularly its Northern chapter, previously rejected calls for Amupitan's removal, warning against introducing religious considerations into the appointment and assessment of public officials.
The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria has also been associated with opposition to the demand.
The disagreement highlights the growing tension surrounding religious identity, public appointments and confidence in Nigeria's electoral institutions.
Can President Tinubu Remove Amupitan?
Although the Sharia Council can express its dissatisfaction and demand his removal, it cannot legally remove the INEC chairman.
Professor Amupitan was nominated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, approved by the National Council of State, confirmed by the Senate and sworn into office on October 23, 2025.
Under Section 157(1) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, the INEC chairman can only be removed by the President acting on an address supported by a two-thirds majority of the Senate.
Such removal must be based on grounds of inability to perform the functions of the office or misconduct.
Therefore, the Council's ultimatum does not automatically translate into a legal process for removing the INEC chairman.
What Does This Mean for Nigeria's 2027 Elections?
With the 2027 general elections approaching, the controversy raises important questions about public confidence in INEC and the need for an electoral process that Nigerians consider transparent, independent and credible.
The electoral commission is expected to operate without religious, political or ethnic favouritism.
Regardless of the ongoing disagreement, Nigerians will expect INEC to demonstrate professionalism, fairness and transparency before, during and after the elections.
< p>The credibility of the 2027 elections will depend not only on the leadership of the commission but also on the integrity of the entire electoral process.Final Thoughts
Nigeria is a country of different religions, ethnic groups and political interests. For democracy to thrive, public institutions must enjoy the confidence of citizens regardless of their backgrounds.
Whether Amupitan remains in office or faces calls for removal, the most important issue should be the credibility of INEC and the protection of Nigerians' democratic rights.
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>The 2027 elections will be an important test of the country's democratic institutions.What Do You Think?
Is the Sharia Council right to demand the removal of INEC Chairman Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, or should he be allowed to remain in office and be judged by his performance?
Do you believe INEC can conduct a free, fair and credible election in 2027?</ p>
Share your opinion in the comment section.
Source: Reports on the Supreme Council for Shari'ah in Nigeria's November 8, 2026 position; constitutional provisions of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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