Kuje council chair changes tune on 'support APC or leave' remark

The Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Danjuma Shekwolo, has explained his earlier comment that residents should support the All Progressives Congress or leave the council.

Shekwolo made this clarification on Wednesday after facing backlash over a video where he said he would not accept opposition from residents who benefit from President Bola Tinubu's and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike's efforts.

In the video, Shekwolo stated, “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.”

But while speaking to journalists and stakeholders on Wednesday, the chairman said people misunderstood his words. He said they do not reflect his true intentions or the views of his administration.

“In public governance, clarity, truth, and transparency are essential. In recent days, certain statements I made were taken out of context and led to a distorted narrative that does not reflect my true intent, core values, or the official position of this administration,” Shekwolo said in a video shared online and posted on Facebook by LeadersNG.

He explained that his comments were made during a meeting with APC youths and loyalists while they were discussing local development and community welfare.

“The remarks in question were made in a specific context aimed at addressing administrative efficiency, local development, and community welfare. You may recall that the event that led to the unfortunate incident was a meeting with the APC party youths and loyalties,” he said.

The chairman admitted that he does not have the power to deny residents their rights based on their political beliefs.

“And as the Executive Chairman of Kuje Area Council, I have no right to disenfranchise any residents or citizen of their fundamental human rights in the council,” he said.

He mentioned that his administration is focused on inclusive governance, fairness, and the development of all communities in Kuje.

“At no point did I intend to cause disaffection, undermine any group, or promote policies that do not serve the best interest of our citizens,” Shekwolo said.

He called on residents, no matter their political, religious, or ethnic backgrounds, to support efforts to develop the area council.

“I urge the people of Kuje Area Council and the general public, regardless of their political affiliation, religious, or ethnic difference, to join hands with the administration to make Kuje the area council of our dreams,” he said.

Shekwolo also asked the media to check the context of statements before publishing them, saying the press and government are “partners in progress.”