NHRC Demands Arrest, Prosecution of Kuje Chairman Over ‘Leave If Not APC’ Threat

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for the arrest and prosecution of Hon. Samuel Shekwolo, Chairman of Kuje Area Council, over allegations that he threatened residents to either support the All Progressives Congress (APC) or leave the area council. The NHRC described Shekwolo's directive as an unconstitutional assault on citizens' fundamental rights and a dangerous threat to democratic participation ahead of the 2027 general election.

Shekwolo's remarks, which have circulated in an online video, suggest that residents must either support APC or vacate the area council, implying that opposition to the party during elections would not be tolerated. The NHRC's Executive Secretary, Chief Tony Ojukwu, declared that the statement amounted to intimidation and an attempt to exploit public office to target citizens with differing political views.

Ojukwu emphasized that the position was incompatible with the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees citizens' freedom of association, movement, and protection from discrimination based on political opinion. He argued that no council chairman, governor, or even the president possesses constitutional authority to banish Nigerians from their communities due to their political affiliation or opinions.

The NHRC further warned that the alleged remarks could have criminal implications, citing provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, the Penal Code, and the Cybercrimes Act that address threats, intimidation, incitement, and communications potentially causing public disorder. Ojukwu cautioned that political rhetoric fostering a "us versus them" environment could spiral into violence, particularly as the nation approaches another highly contested election cycle.

Rejecting suggestions that federal or FCT government projects should be used to secure political loyalty, the NHRC stressed that Shekwolo, having sworn an oath of office, must serve every resident of Kuje without discrimination, regardless of political affiliation. Consequently, the commission urged the Nigeria Police to arrest and prosecute the council chairman, and called on the Department of State Services (DSS) and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate the matter and implement measures to safeguard Kuje residents from harassment, political profiling, intimidation, or potential disenfranchisement ahead of the 2027 elections.

The NHRC also urged the APC leadership and the FCT administration to dissociate themselves from the statement, affirming that membership or support for any political party cannot be a prerequisite for residing in Kuje or accessing public services. The commission assured Kuje residents that their constitutional rights would remain protected and encouraged anyone facing threats or intimidation related to the controversy to contact the commission via its toll-free line (6472) or visit its nearest FCT office.