Pentecostal Fellowship Opposes Calls For Removal Of INEC Chairman

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has rejected the call by the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria for the removal of the INEC chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan on the basis of comments he made on genocide.

PFN in a statement issued by its national secretary, Bishop David Bakare yesterday, said Amupitan as a Nigerian has the right to comment on what he observes to be happening in the nation, regardless of his appointment or assignment.

The statement said, “We condemn in every ramification the suggestion that he should be removed from office on this basis.

“This matter has nothing to do with his assignment. It has nothing to do with elections or any electoral activity, for which he is appointed. He should not be punished for taking a position as a true Nigerian.

“We must also begin to resist the temptation of interpreting people on the basis of their religious beliefs or positions. Prof. Amupitan has  a right to bear his mind  and this should not be at the cost of his job.

“PFN encourages all stakeholders to approach national discourse with restraint, understanding, and respect for the rights of others. Matters of serious national concern should be addressed in a manner that promotes unity and peaceful coexistence. The PFN remains committed to the principles of fairness, justice, and mutual respect, and urges that these values guide public engagement and responses on issues affecting the nation.”