The Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Danjuma Shekwolo, has denied threatening to expel residents who do not support the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Shekwolo said he lacked the authority to deprive any resident or citizen of their fundamental human rights based on political affiliation.
The clarification followed public criticism over a viral video in which the council chairman was heard telling residents to either support the APC or leave the area council.
In the video, Shekwolo said, “I have said in my area council, it’s either you are doing APC or leave the area council. I am not arguing with you.”
However, in a subsequent video released on Wednesday, the chairman explained that the statement was made during a meeting with APC youths and loyalists and was taken out of context.
According to him, the meeting was focused on issues relating to administrative efficiency, local development and the welfare of communities within the council.
Shekwolo stressed that political affiliation could not be used as a basis for denying residents their rights.
“As the Executive Chairman of Kuje Area Council, I have no right to disenfranchise any resident or citizen of their fundamental human rights in the council,” he said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to governing all communities fairly and inclusively, regardless of political differences.
The chairman said he never intended to create division, undermine any group or promote policies contrary to the interests of residents.
He also urged residents and stakeholders across political, religious and ethnic divides to work with his administration toward the development of Kuje Area Council.
Shekwolo further appealed to journalists to verify the context of statements before publishing reports, describing the media and government as “partners in progress.”
