A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Usman Okai Austin, has urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to caution the Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo, over remarks allegedly made against critics and residents who do not support the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Okai, who is also a public affairs analyst and human rights activist, made the call in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, following the circulation of a video in which Shekwolo was allegedly heard making comments that have generated concern among political stakeholders and residents.
In the video, the Kuje council chairman was allegedly heard threatening to track down critics on social media and telling residents who do not support the APC to leave the area council.
Reacting to the remarks, Okai described them as inappropriate and potentially dangerous, warning that statements from political office holders can heighten tension and create an atmosphere of fear within communities.
He said the Federal Capital Territory belongs to Nigerians from different political, ethnic and religious backgrounds and that residents should be allowed to express their political preferences without intimidation.
According to Okai, the position of a council chairman comes with significant responsibility, particularly because local government leaders interact directly with residents and have influence over grassroots affairs.
He warned that if supporters interpret threatening statements from a political office holder as a call to action, the situation could potentially result in confrontation or a breakdown of peace.
The ADC chieftain therefore appealed to Shekwolo to exercise restraint and conduct himself in a manner consistent with the responsibilities of his office.
He said political differences should not be allowed to destroy peaceful coexistence in Kuje, adding that residents with different political affiliations should be able to live and conduct their activities without fear.
Okai also called on Wike to intervene and caution the council chairman before the situation escalates.
He urged the FCT Minister and other relevant authorities to review the comments attributed to Shekwolo and take appropriate steps to ensure that political office holders remain committed to peace and responsible leadership.
The ADC chieftain further called on security agencies to examine the alleged remarks and, where necessary, invite the council chairman to clarify his position.
He said such an intervention would help prevent the situation from escalating while reinforcing the responsibility of public officials to protect the peace and security of residents.
Okai also advised Shekwolo to emulate political leaders who have promoted dialogue and peaceful engagement, citing former FCT Senator Philip Aduda as an example.
He stressed that political office holders should recognise that their public statements can have consequences, particularly in communities where political disagreements are already sensitive.
The controversy comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties and their supporters increasingly mobilising across the country.
The FCT has also witnessed heightened political competition, with the APC and opposition parties seeking to strengthen their influence across the six area councils.
Okai urged political actors to ensure that competition does not turn into hostility, intimidation or threats against opponents.
He maintained that political disagreements are a normal part of democracy and should be resolved through debate, dialogue and lawful political processes.
The ADC chieftain said Kuje has a reputation for peaceful coexistence and that its leadership should reflect the values of tolerance and inclusiveness.
He urged residents to remain calm while calling on political leaders to avoid statements capable of creating unnecessary tension.
The matter is expected to continue attracting attention as stakeholders await any response from the Kuje Area Council chairman, the FCT Administration or relevant security authorities.
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