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

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