ADC chieftain urges Wike to caution Kuje council chair over remarks
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- An African Democratic Congress chieftain urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory to caution a local council chairman.
- The council chairman is accused of making divisive remarks and threatening critics on social media.
- The ADC chieftain called for restraint and peace, emphasizing the FCT as a home for all Nigerians.
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Okai Austin, has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to intervene and caution the Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Samuel Shekwolo. Austin described Shekwolo's recent remarks as divisive and potentially inflammatory, capable of escalating political tensions.
The ADC chieftain, also a human rights activist, cited a viral video where the council chairman allegedly threatened to pursue and attack critics on social media. Shekwolo also reportedly warned residents not supporting the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to leave the Kuje area council.
uncalled for
Okai Austin deemed these statements "uncalled for" and dangerous, warning that such rhetoric could incite violence if not addressed promptly by authorities. He stressed that the FCT is a diverse territory, home to all Nigerians and the international community, and should not be subjected to escalating tensions.
Urging Shekwolo to exercise restraint, Austin advocated for promoting peace, tolerance, and inclusivity among residents, irrespective of their political affiliations. He emphasized that public officials, especially at the grassroots level, must be mindful of their words and avoid statements that create division. Austin suggested that Kuje, known for its peace and tolerance, should have leadership that reflects these values.
The Federal Capital Territory is home to all Nigerians, as well as the international community. We must not allow anyone to escalate tensions.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.