2027 Polls: Middle Belt Youths Warn Shari’ah Council Over Comments Against INEC Chair

The Middle Belt Youths Forum has issued a strong warning to the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) over what it described as inflammatory statements capable of undermining national unity and the credibility of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement released on Saturday, January 31, 2026, and signed by its leader, Comrade Meliga Godwin, the group raised concerns over recent comments attributed to the SCSN suggesting that the Nigerian Muslim Ummah may refuse to recognise any election conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under its current chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.

The forum warned that such pronouncements could weaken public trust in democratic institutions and exacerbate political and religious tensions across the country if not promptly addressed.

According to the youths, Nigeria’s democratic system is anchored on constitutional procedures, the rule of law and respect for the independence of key institutions, particularly INEC. They cautioned that any attempt, whether real or perceived, to delegitimise the electoral body ahead of a national election could pose a serious threat to national stability.

The group urged socio-religious organisations, political actors and other stakeholders to exercise restraint in their public utterances, advocating constructive dialogue and lawful engagement rather than statements that could deepen existing divisions.

They also called on INEC, civil society organisations and security agencies to remain vigilant and committed to ensuring a transparent, inclusive and credible electoral process, stressing that peaceful elections require collective responsibility.

Reaffirming their commitment to national unity, the Middle Belt youths appealed to Nigerians to uphold peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and active participation in the democratic process as preparations for the 2027 general election continued.