NHRC calls for arrest of Kuje council chair over 'vote APC or leave' threat

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Thursday asked for the arrest of the Chairperson of Kuje Area Council, Samuel Shekwolo. He reportedly told residents to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027 or leave the area.

In a statement from the NHRC, the Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu, called this an “intimidation and direct assault on the Constitution and on democratic principles.”

Ojukwu said, “In view of the foregoing, the Commission is demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of Hon. Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo by the Nigeria Police Force.”

The Commission also urged the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and INEC to start an investigation. They want protective measures in place to stop harassment, profiling, or disenfranchisement of Kuje residents ahead of the 2027 elections.

Shekwolo's Statement
PREMIUM TIMES reported that Mr Shekwolo was seen in a video telling residents to vote for the ruling APC or leave the council area.

He said, “I have said in my area council, it’s either you’re doing APC or leave the area council. I am not arguing with you. With confidence, I am saying it. You know why? I cannot have the minister and president doing for us what they are doing.”

He continued, “On the day of election, you now come and say you want to match me. I will not agree. It is either you are with us, or you are not here.”

The NHRC pointed out that no leader has the right to force citizens out of their communities based on their political choices.

Ojukwu also asked the APC and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to distance themselves from Shekwolo’s comments. He emphasized that development projects cannot be used to buy people’s loyalty or force them into a political party.

Every Nigerian has the right to vote for any party they choose. They also have the freedom to move and live anywhere in the country, Ojukwu stated.

He added, “The Commission also observed that such utterance amounts to an offence under Nigerian law. These include Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act 2022, which prohibit threats and intimidation aimed at influencing voters, Section 416 of the Penal Code on inciting disturbance of public peace, and Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes Act 2015 regarding the circulation of statements that can cause a breakdown of law and order.”

Ojukwu warned that when a public officer divides people into “us and them” and threatens those who disagree, he is misusing his position and stirring up violence and hatred against non-APC members.

He expressed concern that statements like Shekwolo’s could lead to more violence.

Shekwolo’s comment is the latest in a series of controversial statements aimed at promoting votes for the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.