2027 Polls: Christian Group Cautions Shari’a Council Over INEC Boycott Threat

2027 Polls: Christian Group Cautions Shari’a Council Over INEC Boycott Threat

The Christian Social Movement of Nigeria (CSMN) has cautioned against attempts to politicise the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that threats to boycott elections on religious grounds could heighten tensions and weaken public confidence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a joint statement signed by its Governing Council Chairman, Elder Sunday Oibe, and Chief Executive Officer, Bosun Emmanuel, the group urged religious bodies and socio-political organisations to exercise restraint in public pronouncements capable of straining Nigeria’s already fragile political and security environment.

The warning followed a recent call by the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) for the resignation of INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan. Speaking at its 2026 pre-Ramadan lecture in Abuja, the Islamic body described the INEC chairman as a threat to electoral credibility and cautioned that Muslims might reject elections conducted under his leadership, citing concerns about neutrality and integrity.

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Reacting to the development, CSMN clarified that its position was not in defence of any administration or individual but a principled appeal to safeguard the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process. The group stressed that appointments into key national institutions such as INEC leadership must strictly follow constitutional provisions rather than religious or sectional pressure.

“With the numerous challenges facing Nigeria, all well-meaning citizens must exercise restraint in words and actions that could escalate an already volatile situation,” the statement read.

The organisation noted that previous administrations had appointed INEC chairmen from different religious backgrounds without triggering threats of election boycotts. It warned that injecting religion into the administration of elections risks deepening divisions and undermining trust in democratic institutions.

CSMN further observed that leadership appointments in federal institutions have historically reflected Nigeria’s diversity and should not be exploited for religious mobilisation. According to the group, sustained religious polarisation could erode confidence in national institutions and weaken democratic stability ahead of 2027.

On broader constitutional concerns raised by some Islamic organisations, the Christian body called for clearer legal interpretation of the role of Sharia within Nigeria’s plural legal system, advocating long-term constitutional reforms aimed at promoting equity, justice and national unity.

The group urged religious leaders, civil society organisations and political actors to embrace dialogue, respect institutional processes and prioritise national cohesion. It emphasised that Nigeria’s stability depends on reducing religious confrontation rather than intensifying it as preparations gradually begin for the next electoral cycle.

2027 Polls: Christian Group Cautions Shari’a Council Over INEC Boycott Threat