Controversy Deepens As NHRC Moves Against Kuje Chairman Over Alleged ‘Join APC Or Leave’ Statement

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the Nigeria Police Force to investigate and prosecute the Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo, over a viral video in which he allegedly warned residents to either support the All Progressives Congress (APC) or leave the area.

The commission described the alleged remarks as unacceptable, stressing that no public official has the authority to make political affiliation a condition for living in a community or benefiting from government projects.

Shekwolo reportedly sparked controversy after appearing in a video where he told residents, “It’s either you are with us or you are against us.”

He was also alleged to have linked development projects by the Federal Government and the FCT Administration to political support while cautioning residents against voting for opposition parties.

Reacting to the development, the NHRC said the remarks could amount to intimidation and an infringement on the constitutional rights of residents.

The Executive Secretary of the commission, Chief Tony Ojukwu, SAN, said Nigerians are constitutionally guaranteed the freedom to associate, choose their political affiliations and reside anywhere in the country without discrimination.

Ojukwu cited Sections 40, 41 and 42 of the 1999 Constitution, which protect freedom of association, movement and residence, as well as citizens from discrimination based on political opinion.

He stressed that these rights remain protected regardless of whether a citizen supports the government or an opposition party.

According to him, no council chairman or other public official has the legal authority to order residents out of their communities because of their political affiliations.

The NHRC consequently described any attempt to impose such a condition as unconstitutional and legally invalid.

The commission also expressed concern that the alleged comments could have implications under Nigeria’s electoral and criminal laws.

It referenced Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act 2022, which address threats and intimidation intended to influence voters. It also cited Section 416 of the Penal Code on incitement to breach public peace and Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes Act 2015.

Ojukwu warned that inflammatory political statements could create an “us versus them” atmosphere, potentially exposing residents to harassment or violence as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

He urged public officials to exercise caution in their public statements, noting that provocative remarks could worsen existing political tensions.

The NHRC also reminded Shekwolo that his position requires him to serve all residents of Kuje, regardless of their political affiliations.

Ojukwu rejected the idea of using government-funded projects or infrastructure as a means of securing political loyalty, stressing that public resources should benefit citizens irrespective of the political parties they support.

The commission therefore urged the police to investigate the chairman’s alleged remarks and prosecute him if the investigation establishes that an offence was committed.

It further called on the Department of State Services (DSS), the police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to examine the matter and take measures to prevent intimidation, harassment and political profiling of Kuje residents ahead of the 2027 elections.

The NHRC also urged the APC leadership and the FCT Administration to publicly distance themselves from the controversial remarks.

It reiterated that APC membership must not be made a condition for residing in Kuje or accessing government services.

Ojukwu assured residents that they have the right to live in Kuje and support any political party of their choice without fear.

He urged anyone who feels threatened or intimidated to contact the NHRC through its toll-free line, 6472, or visit the commission’s nearest office within the FCT.