Northern CAN and prominent Christian clerics in the region have rejected calls for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, describing the demand as dangerous, divisive and an attempt to politicise religion in national affairs.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory said the call, allegedly coming from a religious group, was aimed at undermining a critical democratic institution and questioned the motives behind the campaign against the INEC chairman.
In a statement signed by its leadership, Northern CAN warned that dragging religion into the assessment of public office holders could inflame sectarian tensions and threaten national cohesion. The association stressed that personal faith does not disqualify any Nigerian from holding public office.
CAN further argued that Nigeria has a long history of citizens from different religious backgrounds occupying sensitive national positions without controversy, insisting that competence, integrity and adherence to the law should remain the only criteria for judging public officials.
The Christian body commended President Bola Tinubu for what it described as an inclusive appointment, urging Prof. Amupitan to remain focused on his constitutional responsibilities and not be distracted by what it called unwarranted attacks.
Similarly, Christian clerics under the National Christian Alliance for Good Governance in Nigeria also condemned the call for the INEC chairman’s removal, describing it as undemocratic and warning that such rhetoric could deepen divisions and heighten tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
