Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo, over remarks allegedly threatening residents who refuse to support or vote for the All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The reaction followed the circulation of a video in which Shekwolo was heard saying residents of the area council must either support the APC or leave.
The chairman also reportedly said he would not tolerate opposition to the ruling party or President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, citing development projects being carried out by the Federal Government and the FCT administration.
Amnesty International described the remarks as a direct threat to citizens’ fundamental rights, stressing that no Nigerian should be forced to support a political party as a condition for living in a particular community.
“Authoritatively saying those who will not vote for the APC must leave the Kuje Area Council is a call to violence and direct attack on freedom of association and liberty of persons,” the rights organisation said.
The group urged the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to intervene and prevent any attempt to intimidate residents because of their political choices.
Amnesty maintained that Nigerians have the constitutional right to freely associate with and support any political party without fear of threats, persecution or intimidation.
The organisation also described Shekwolo as “a danger to society” and called for accountability over the remarks, warning that statements of such nature could undermine democratic freedoms and potentially endanger residents.
The controversy comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties and their supporters stepping up mobilisation across the country.
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