Ethnic Youth Leaders Warn SCSN Against Undermining INEC, Democracy

Youth socio-cultural groups operating under the aegis of ethnic youth leaders have cautioned individuals and organisations against actions or statements capable of undermining public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions, warning that any plot to derail the nation’s democracy would ultimately fail.

The groups issued the warning in a joint statement released at the weekend by their Deputy Spokesperson, Mirabel Ashara, in reaction to comments credited to the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) concerning the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.

LEADERSHIP recalls that SCSN had publicly demanded the removal of INEC Chairman Prof. Amupitan, citing concerns over his integrity and impartiality.

Amupitan was accused of previously authoring a legal brief claiming a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria, contradicting the Federal Government’s position and questioning his neutrality as an electoral umpire.
​
The council also warned that Muslims nationwide would not recognise or legitimise any elections under Amupitan’s leadership, viewing his continued tenure as a “serious threat” to democratic credibility.

Reacting to the comments by SCSN, the youth leaders urged all stakeholders to respect the independence and constitutional mandate of INEC, stressing that the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process rests on collective responsibility and strict adherence to the rule of law.

They expressed concern over SCSN’s reported reservations about recognising elections conducted by INEC under the leadership of its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, describing such pronouncements as capable of heightening political tension and eroding trust in democratic institutions.

According to the statement, disagreements over policies, leadership, or electoral outcomes should be addressed through lawful and constructive means rather than through public declarations that could destabilise the polity.

“Democracy thrives on dialogue, tolerance and respect for institutions,” the coalition said, urging religious, ethnic and political organisations to act responsibly and promote unity and peaceful engagement at all times.

The ethnic youth leaders reiterated their commitment to the protection of democratic principles and called on Nigerians to remain vigilant, law-abiding and actively involved in strengthening democratic governance across the country.

They further emphasised that Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength, not division, and warned that attempts to sow distrust in key democratic institutions would be resisted by citizens committed to the survival of democracy.