The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria has dismissed as false reports claiming it directed Muslims to pray for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Joash Amupitan.

In a statement issued by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba-Ahmad, the council said it never issued any such directive and described the claims as misleading and unsubstantiated.

The council stated that the reports were fabricated and aimed at dragging the organisation into partisan political controversies, warning the public against relying on unverified social media sources.

It urged Nigerians, especially members of the Muslim community and the media, to disregard the viral claims and rely only on official communication channels.

While distancing itself from the alleged prayer directive, the council reaffirmed its earlier position that the INEC chairman should either resign or be removed, citing concerns over neutrality and fairness.

It, however, maintained that its stance was based on principles of justice and not political or sectarian bias.

The council reiterated its commitment to promoting peace, equity, and religious harmony, warning that misinformation could create unnecessary tension and undermine national stability.