Controversial remarks by the chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Danjuma Shekwolo, directing residents to support the All Progressives Congress, APC, or leave the council have been withdrawn.
Shekwolo made the clarification on Wednesday after a video of the remarks circulated widely and attracted criticism.
The chairman explained that the statement was made during a meeting with APC youths and supporters and was not intended to deny residents their fundamental rights because of their political affiliation.
In the video, Shekwolo said he would not tolerate opposition from residents who had benefited from the administration of President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
“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”, he said.
But in a statement issued on Wednesday, Shekwolo said the remarks were made in the context of discussions on administrative efficiency, local development and the welfare of residents.
“You may recall that the event that led to the unfortunate incidents was a meeting with the APC party youths and loyalists”, he said.
Shekwolo acknowledged that, as chairman of the council, he had no authority to take away the fundamental rights of any resident.
He assured residents that his administration would continue to govern fairly and work for the development of all communities in Kuje, regardless of their political affiliation.
