No prayer call against INEC chair – Shari’ah Council

The Supreme Council for Shari'ah in Nigeria has vehemently refuted claims circulating on social media that it called for special prayers for the removal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan. The council has been inundated with inquiries following what it describes as a series of misleading and unsubstantiated reports originating from anonymous sources.

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The council categorically dissociates itself from these claims. At no time did it issue any directive, statement, or call on Muslims to embark on prayers specifically calling for the removal of the chairman of INEC

In a clear and unequivocal statement, the council's Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba-Ahmad, asserted that no such directive was ever issued. The organization categorically dissociates itself from these fabrications, urging the public to disregard them entirely. These reports are not only false but appear to be a deliberate attempt to sow confusion, create unnecessary tension, and drag the council into the divisive arena of partisan politics.

The council emphasized its commitment to its role as a reputable religious organization dedicated to promoting justice, equity, moral rectitude, and peaceful coexistence. It operates strictly through recognized communication channels and warns the public against relying on unverified social media accounts, which are often used to spread misinformation.

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These fabrications are clearly intended to create unnecessary tension and drag the council into the murky and often divisive waters of political contestation

While distancing itself from the alleged prayer directive, the Supreme Council for Shari'ah in Nigeria reiterated its previously stated position regarding the INEC chairman's leadership. The council maintains its concern about the chairman's neutrality and integrity, particularly in relation to perceived prejudice against Islam and Muslims. It insists that such alleged sentiments are incompatible with the responsibilities of a sensitive national office in a pluralistic society like Nigeria, and therefore, the chairman should either resign or be removed.

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Our position is not driven by political bias or sectarian interests but by serious concerns arising from actions and dispositions that have demonstrated a clear prejudice against Islam and Muslims