Shari’ah Council Denies Viral Prayer Claim, Reiterates Call for INEC Chairman’s Removal

The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) has distanced itself from viral social media reports alleging that it directed Muslims to embark on special prayers seeking the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.

In a statement issued by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba Ahmed, the council said the reports circulating online did not originate from the organisation and should be disregarded by the public.

According to the SCSN, at no time did it instruct Muslims to organise prayers targeted at INEC or its leadership, stressing that the content being shared was fabricated with the intent to misinform Nigerians and create unnecessary tension.

“The fabrications are clearly intended to drag the Council into partisan political contestation and undermine national stability,” the statement said.

The council urged members of the public, especially the Muslim community and media organisations, to rely only on verified and official communication channels to avoid the spread of misinformation.

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While firmly denying the prayer directive, the SCSN reaffirmed its earlier position that the INEC chairman should either resign or be relieved of his duties. It said its stance is based on concerns it has consistently raised about leadership conduct and institutional neutrality.

The council alleged that its position is informed by what it described as actions and dispositions that suggest prejudice against Islam and Muslims, referencing concerns it said were contained in a widely circulated legal brief.

It argued that leadership of a sensitive national institution such as INEC must uphold strict neutrality, fairness, and public trust, warning that any perceived bias could undermine national cohesion and electoral credibility.

Reiterating its non-partisan status, the SCSN stressed that it remains committed to promoting justice, equity, and peaceful coexistence across religious and ethnic lines in Nigeria.

The organisation further cautioned against attempts to politicise its activities, insisting it would not be drawn into partisan disputes or used as a tool for political agendas.

“The Council will not allow itself to be drawn into the murky waters of partisan politics,” it added.

The development comes amid rising online misinformation trends in Nigeria, where religious and political statements are frequently misrepresented on social media, prompting calls for greater public caution and responsible information sharing.

The SCSN concluded by reaffirming its commitment to a peaceful and inclusive society where all citizens can practice their faith freely without discrimination or fear.

Shari’ah Council Denies Viral Prayer Claim, Reiterates Call for INEC Chairman’s Removal

Relief for Nigerian Doctors as FG Begins CONMESS Arrears Payment

The Federal Government has commenced the payment of long-awaited doctors’ salary arrears in Nigeria, offering relief to members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) after months of delays tied to the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) review.

The association confirmed the development in an official communication signed by its Publicity and Social Secretary, Abdulmajid Ibrahim, noting that disbursement is already underway across various institutions.

According to NARD, the salary arrears payment covers between one and six months for affected doctors, with many members already confirming receipt. The association described the development as a significant step toward resolving lingering welfare concerns in Nigeria’s health sector.

“The leadership of NARD is pleased to inform all members that payment of the outstanding 25/35 CONMESS review arrears has commenced,” the statement read, highlighting progress on the implementation of the revised salary structure.

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Despite the progress, NARD disclosed that the August component of the arrears is currently experiencing minor administrative delays. The association explained that the issue is being addressed and that payments for that period may take an additional one to two weeks to be completed.

Doctors who are yet to receive their payments have been urged to remain patient, as the Federal Government continues the phased disbursement nationwide.

The CONMESS review, which determines salary scales and allowances for medical and dental practitioners in public hospitals, has long been a source of tension between doctors and the government. Delays in implementing the structure and settling arrears have, in the past, triggered industrial actions by NARD, disrupting healthcare services across the country.

Resident doctors—who form a critical part of Nigeria’s tertiary healthcare system—have repeatedly raised concerns over poor welfare, unpaid salaries, and challenging working conditions. These issues have contributed significantly to the rising brain drain in Nigeria’s health sector, with many professionals relocating abroad in search of better opportunities.

Industry observers note that the loss of medical personnel has worsened Nigeria’s already strained doctor-to-patient ratio, placing additional pressure on healthcare facilities nationwide.

The commencement of the payment of doctors’ arrears is therefore seen as a strategic move by the Federal Government to stabilise the sector, improve morale among healthcare workers, and avert potential industrial unrest.

NARD further advised members who experience any discrepancies after the disbursement process to channel complaints through their respective institutions for prompt resolution.

Reaffirming its commitment, the association commended members for their patience and resilience, assuring them that efforts to improve welfare conditions will continue.

Relief for Nigerian Doctors as FG Begins CONMESS Arrears Payment

Six Months Enough to End Insecurity in Nigeria If … – Ndume

Ali Ndume, Senator representing Borno South Senatorial District, has said Nigeria can overcome its persistent security challenges within six months if the Federal Government demonstrates strong political will and adopts a decisive, coordinated approach.

Speaking on Politics Today aired on Channels Television, Ndume expressed concern over the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the North-East, stressing that the issue requires urgent and result-oriented action rather than prolonged discussions.

According to him, Nigeria has the capacity to tackle insurgency and other threats, but lacks full commitment in execution. He emphasised that properly training, equipping, arming, and motivating Nigerian soldiers would significantly improve operational effectiveness and deliver results within a short timeframe.

The lawmaker decried the continued loss of military personnel, including senior officers, describing it as a serious setback. He cited recent incidents in Northern Borno where a colonel and several soldiers were reportedly killed, warning that such occurrences highlight deeper operational gaps that must be urgently addressed.

Ndume attributed the worsening situation to the inconsistent implementation of security strategies, noting that many operations are not followed through to completion. He urged the government to “walk the talk” and ensure that policies are fully executed to achieve lasting results.

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He further highlighted the importance of technology-driven security solutions, calling for increased deployment of drones, enhanced air support, and improved intelligence gathering systems. According to him, Nigeria already has trained personnel, including special forces, but lacks the necessary equipment and logistics to maximise their impact.

On foreign assistance, Ndume maintained that Nigeria does not necessarily need external combat forces but should focus on acquiring specialised intelligence and technical expertise to strengthen local capacity.

The senator also commended Babagana Zulum for his efforts in stabilising Borno State, noting that the situation could have deteriorated further without the governor’s interventions.

Nigeria is currently facing renewed security challenges, especially in the North-East. A recent airstrike at Jilli Market has drawn scrutiny following reports of civilian casualties. The Nigerian Air Force stated that the strike targeted suspected Boko Haram insurgents and confirmed that an investigation is ongoing into the incident.

The airstrike came shortly after a deadly attack on a military formation in Benisheikh, where troops repelled insurgents but recorded casualties.

Beyond the North-East, banditry, kidnappings, and communal clashes continue to pose serious threats across the country, underscoring the urgency of comprehensive and sustained security reforms.

Ndume concluded that with strong leadership, adequate funding, modern technology, and improved troop welfare, Nigeria can significantly reduce insecurity within six months if decisive action is taken.

Six Months Enough to End Insecurity in Nigeria If … – Ndume