Human Rights Commission Demands Arrest of Council Chairman Over 'Leave If Not APC' Threat

Nigeria's National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a strong call for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Hon. Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo. The demand stems from alleged remarks made by Shekwolo directing residents who do not support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to leave the council area.

The NHRC Executive Secretary, Chief Tony Ojukwu, SAN, condemned the chairman's statement, circulated in a viral video, as an "unconstitutional assault on citizens' fundamental rights." Ojukwu stated that the remarks constitute a dangerous threat to democratic participation, particularly with the 2027 general elections on the horizon. He emphasized that such intimidation and the weaponization of public office against citizens with differing political views are unacceptable.

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The statement... amounted to intimidation and an attempt to weaponise public office against citizens holding political views different from those of the council chairman.

In the video, Shekwolo is heard explicitly stating that residents must either support the APC or depart, and that opposition to the party would not be tolerated during elections. Ojukwu countered that this position violates the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association, movement, and protection from discrimination based on political opinion, citing Sections 40, 41, and 42.

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History has shown that such rhetoric often begins with words and ends in blood, and the NHRC will therefore not wait for it to escalate.

Ojukwu further warned that such divisive rhetoric, creating an "us versus them" environment, could escalate into violence. He cited historical precedents where inflammatory language has led to bloodshed, stating, "History has shown that such rhetoric often begins with words and ends in blood, and the NHRC will therefore not wait for it to escalate." The commission also rejected the notion of using government projects to secure political loyalty, reminding Shekwolo of his oath to serve all residents impartially.

The NHRC urged the Nigeria Police Force to act swiftly on the arrest and prosecution. Additionally, it called upon the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate the matter and implement measures to safeguard Kuje residents from harassment, political profiling, and intimidation.

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No council chairman, governor or even the President has the constitutional power to banish Nigerians from their communities because of their political affiliation or opinions.