Top Islamic body, JNI, backs calls for INEC chief’s removal over alleged bias

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), a prominent Islamic organization in Nigeria, has urgently called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately dismiss the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan.

The call was made by the JNI’s Secretary-General, Professor Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, during the group’s annual programme marking the commencement of the 2026 Ramadan fasting month. The event was attended by traditional rulers and clerics from across the nation, including the Shehu of Borno and the Emir of Dutse.

Speaking on behalf of the organization, Professor Aliyu stated that the demand was necessitated by allegations of Professor Amupitan’s role in demonstrating hostility towards Islam and Muslims. The JNI cited a text purportedly authored by Amupitan which claimed that Christians are facing genocide in Nigeria.

The JNI warned that such statements and actions are capable of provoking division and unrest within the country. Consequently, the body has urged the government to take swift action to safeguard national peace and unity.

This development places fresh scrutiny on the head of the nation’s electoral body and underscores ongoing tensions along religious lines in Nigeria’s public discourse.