The Christian Social Movement of Nigeria has deemed the calls for the resignation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan as unnecessary. The movement has expressed concerns regarding the potential implications of such threats, especially the damaging effects on public confidence in Nigeria's democratic processes. Highlighting the delicate nature of Nigeria's political landscape, the group is cautioning against any political discourse that could provoke divisions along religious lines, particularly surrounding the upcoming elections.

This response comes on the heels of a statement from the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, whose President, Sheikh Bashir Umar, publicly urged for Amupitan’s resignation. Sheikh Umar emphasized that Muslims would not acknowledge or validate elections overseen by Amupitan, indicating a significant level of discontent within a segment of the Muslim community regarding the INEC's leadership. The remarks were made during the Council’s 2026 Annual Pre-Ramadan Lecture and General Assembly in Abuja, highlighting the potential for escalating tensions as the electoral process approaches.

In their statement, the Christian Social Movement affirmed that the appointment of the INEC Chairman is constitutionally protected, implying that removal or resignation based on vocal opposition undermines democratic principles. The Governing Council Chairman, Sunday Oibe, along with the CEO, Bosun Emmanuel, reiterated the importance of upholding democratic integrity and avoiding actions that could lead to a fractured electoral process. As Nigeria's political climate becomes increasingly volatile, the group’s stance advocates for unity and a collective focus on maintaining electoral credibility.