‘Vote APC or leave Kuje’: Council chair Shekwolo backtracks as ADC demands arrest

Kuje Area Council Chairman, Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo, has moved to clarify a controversial remark in which he was heard saying residents must support the All Progressives Congress or leave the council, as opposition parties intensified calls for action against him.

In a video circulating on social media, Shekwolo was heard saying: “I have said in my area council, it’s either you’re doing APC or leave the area council. I am not arguing with you.”

The remark triggered criticism from the African Democratic Congress, which demanded his immediate arrest and prosecution, describing the statement as a threat against residents who support other political parties.

ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, argued that the comment amounted to a threat of forced displacement and cited constitutional guarantees relating to freedom of association, movement and protection from discrimination.

The party called on the Inspector-General of Police and the Department of State Services to take action.

“Not to invite him. Not to ‘engage’ him. Not to invite him for a chat and release him before the ink on the headline is dry. Arrest him, charge him, and let a court of law decide,” the ADC said.

The party also pointed to the figures from Shekwolo’s election, arguing that thousands of residents who did not vote for him were nevertheless entitled to representation and protection from his administration.

But Shekwolo subsequently said his remarks had been taken out of context and sensationalised.

Addressing journalists alongside APC stakeholders in Kuje, the council chairman said the meeting during which the statement was made centred on administration, development and community welfare.

He insisted that he had no intention of disenfranchising or intimidating residents because of their political choices.

“At no point did I intend to cause disaffection, undermine any group, or promote policies that do not serve the best interest of our citizens,” Shekwolo said.

He maintained that his administration remained committed to governing all residents irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity or religion.

The chairman also acknowledged that he had no power to deprive any resident of constitutionally guaranteed rights and urged the media to establish the full context of statements before publication.

The controversy has also drawn condemnation from the Accord Party in the FCT.

Its chairman, Vaniah Akanimoh Agbon, described the remark as unacceptable, insisting that Kuje Area Council belongs to all residents and not to any political party or elected official.