An Islamic group, the Young Muslim League of Nigeria (YMLN), has publicly disagreed with the position of the Sharia Council on recent electoral matters, declaring its support for the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan.
DAILY POST recalls that the Sharia Council recently called for the sack of INEC chairman.
In a press statement issued by the National Coordinator of the Young Muslim League of Nigeria (YMLN), Ibrahim Mohammed Abdullahi said that, while it holds the Sharia Council in high regard as a respected religious body, it believes that differences of opinion on national issues, especially governance and elections, should be expressed constructively and without undermining democratic institutions.
It said, “the Young Muslim League of Nigeria wishes to clearly state that we differ with the recent stance taken by the Sharia Council concerning INEC.”
According to the statement, “our support for Chairman Amupitan is anchored on his commitment to transparency, rule of law and the conduct of credible elections, which are essential for national stability.”
The group cautioned against what it described as attempts to politicise religion or discredit public officials without verifiable evidence, noting that such actions could deepen divisions in the country.
It further urged religious and civil society organisations to play complementary roles by promoting peace, voter education and national unity, rather than engaging in actions that could erode public confidence in electoral institutions.
It believes that constructive engagement, not confrontation, is the best way to strengthen democracy, just as it called on INEC to sustain reforms aimed at improving electoral integrity, while encouraging citizens, especially Muslim youths, to participate actively and responsibly in the democratic process.
