A group, Okun Media Professionals, has criticised the demand for the sack of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Amupitan, following comments attributed to the President of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, Sheikh Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Chief Olugbemi Femi, the group described the call as unfortunate and unacceptable, warning that it threatens the independence of INEC and the integrity of the electoral process.
The statement commended Amupitan’s commitment to transparency and fairness, noting that he had performed creditably since assuming leadership of the commission.
The group expressed concern over what it described as divisive rhetoric capable of destabilising the nation, stressing that Nigeria had moved beyond religious and ethnic fanaticism.
“The era of fanaticism and extremism is over in Nigeria. We must not allow sentiments that can destabilise our country to thrive,” the statement read in part.
The Okun Media Professionals urged Sheikh Umar to channel his influence towards promoting peace and national unity rather than fostering division.
The group emphasised that competence and integrity, not religious or ethnic considerations, should guide public appointments in the country.
It called on Nigerians to support Amupitan and INEC in their efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and deliver credible elections.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the group’s commitment to advocating merit-based leadership and national cohesion.
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