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

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken a strong stance against Kuje Area Council Chairman Hon. Samuel Shekwolo, demanding his immediate arrest and prosecution. Shekwolo is accused of threatening residents with expulsion if they do not support the All Progressives Congress (APC) party.

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the statement, which had circulated in a video online, amounted to intimidation and an attempt to weaponise public office against citizens holding political views different from those of the council chairman.

The NHRC described Shekwolo's alleged directive as an "unconstitutional assault" on citizens' fundamental rights and a dangerous precursor to political violence, particularly with the 2027 general election approaching. Executive Secretary Chief Tony Ojukwu, SAN, stated that the viral video of Shekwolo's remarks amounts to intimidation and the weaponization of public office against those with differing political views.

Ojukwu emphasized that Shekwolo's position contradicts the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association, movement, and protection from discrimination based on political opinion. He cited specific constitutional sections protecting these rights, asserting that no public official has the power to banish citizens for their political affiliations.

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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.

The commission warned that such divisive rhetoric, creating an "us versus them" environment, could escalate into violence, recalling historical instances where words led to bloodshed. The NHRC also rejected the idea of using government projects to secure political loyalty. It called on the Nigeria Police to arrest and prosecute Shekwolo, and urged the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate and implement measures to protect Kuje residents from harassment and potential disenfranchisement.

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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.