The Political Awareness Group, PAG, has expressed its support for the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) in calling for the removal of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The demand follows concerns regarding the credibility and impartiality of the electoral body as the 2027 general elections approach.

In a statement jointly signed by PAG Chairman Dr. Lukman Fasasi and Secretary Adesola Bamidele, the group emphasized that Nigeria, as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious federation, necessitates an electoral commission led by individuals of unimpeachable integrity to maintain institutional trust and public confidence.

PAG highlighted that institutional integrity and perceived neutrality are crucial for INEC to be respected as an unbiased arbiter of the nation’s elections, especially as discussions surrounding electoral reforms and the constitutional expansion of INEC’s role gain momentum.

This call arises amidst growing public discourse concerning Prof. Amupitan’s suitability for the role of INEC chairman, following a controversial legal brief he reportedly authored.

“The brief, which referenced allegations of persecution described by some as “Christian genocide” in Nigeria, has become central to debates over his impartiality”

According to the statement, the Supreme Council for Shari’ah has consistently argued that Prof. Amupitan’s continued leadership at INEC poses a significant threat to the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic process.

The group underscored that any leadership perceived as biased, regardless of the nature of that bias, risks undermining the confidence Nigerians place in the electoral process.

It asserted that public trust is a cornerstone of democratic stability and cannot be taken for granted in a society characterized by ethnic, religious, and political diversity.

According to PAG, Prof. Amupitan’s alleged involvement with the contentious brief raises questions about his ability to function as an impartial umpire, a role that demands strict neutrality and fairness under the Nigerian Constitution.

The Political Awareness Group warned that failing to address these concerns could lead to numerous legal challenges and public disputes surrounding future elections.

It contended that, as a public intellectual and academic, the INEC chairman should be held to the highest standards of conduct, and even the perception of partiality is damaging to the legitimacy of Nigeria’s electoral institutions.

The group emphasized that public confidence is the lifeblood of electoral legitimacy, and any developments capable of weakening that confidence warrant urgent and transparent review within constitutional and legal frameworks.

PAG stressed that the advocates for the chairman’s removal are not motivated by his religious identity. The group noted that Prof. Amupitan would be the 15th head of the national electoral body and, historically, the 13th Christian to occupy the position, with no similar objections raised against previous officeholders.

“The present demand is strictly tied to questions of perceived impartiality and national interest”

PAG further referenced ongoing efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to enhance Nigeria’s global reputation and heal internal divisions.

It argued that any individual who has previously failed to rise above divisive narratives or contributed to portrayals capable of harming national cohesion might find it challenging to command the trust required to lead a body responsible for conducting elections for citizens of all faiths and backgrounds.

The statement emphasized that PAG’s position is rooted entirely in safeguarding the credibility and integrity of democratic governance, devoid of any religious or sectarian considerations.

The statement called on relevant authorities, including the National Assembly, to thoroughly investigate the allegations and concerns raised, taking legal and procedural actions that uphold the rule of law and protect public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

PAG urged the President and all constitutionally relevant authorities to act promptly, insisting that timely action would reassure Nigerians that the nation’s democratic institutions remain anchored in fairness, accountability, and unity.

“This will alleviate fears and anxieties among civil society actors regarding the future of credible elections in Nigeria”