JIBWIS Slams INEC, Rejects Chairman Appointment Over Credibility Concerns

Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, National Chairman of the Council of Ulama of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), has rejected the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as a “risk of the highest order” for Nigeria. He stated that the nomination is opposed by Nigerian Muslims.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking at the conclusion of JIBWIS’ 33rd annual national seminar held at the Saddeqa Event Centre in Jos, Sheikh Jingir emphasized that the leadership of INEC must command public trust across all religious communities.

While the Tinubu administration has consistently dismissed claims of bias against the INEC chairman, it has remained silent on calls for Amupitan’s removal, drawing criticism from religious leaders.

Sheikh Jingir highlighted past statements by Amupitan, accusing Nigerian Muslims of committing genocide against Christians, which he argued disqualified him from holding such a sensitive national position.

“Why is it that someone who has insulted Sheikh Usman Danfodio and Muslims was appointed INEC chairman?” he asked, describing the appointment as a significant threat to inter‑religious harmony and the credibility of democracy, especially with general elections approaching.

He also criticized the silence of the National Assembly, urging lawmakers to intervene to ensure that the leadership of the electoral body remains fair and impartial.

“Muslims reject the idea of someone who invited foreign interference on Nigeria being appointed to lead such a crucial institution,” Sheikh Jingir stated, adding that the appointment could compromise the impartiality of INEC in critical electoral matters.

Reiterating his stance, he said, “I disagree with a person who went abroad calling for an attack on Nigeria. Yet the government, under a Muslim‑Muslim ticket, has taken the extremely risky decision to appoint him as head of the electoral umpire. This is a risk of the highest order.”