Nigeria council chairman tells residents: Vote APC or leave

In Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory, the Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Danjuma Shekwolo, has issued a stark ultimatum to his constituents: vote for the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) in 2027 or face expulsion from the area. Shekwolo's controversial statement, made during a meeting with the FCT Youth Network, has ignited widespread condemnation.

“

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 minister and president doing for us what they are doing.

Shekwolo, speaking ahead of a local youth election, declared his unwavering support for the APC, citing the current administration's development efforts. "I have said in my area council, it’s either you’re doing APC or leave the area council," he stated, adding, "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."

“

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 remarks have drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups, with Amnesty International cautioning that such statements could incite social unrest. The organization emphasized that government officials must protect citizens' voting rights, free from coercion, as guaranteed by international and national laws. Amnesty International labeled Shekwolo a danger to society and urged security agencies to hold him accountable.

“

government officials bear the responsibility of protecting citizens’ rights to vote, free from coercion, noting that these fundamental civil rights must be “respected, protected and fulfilled, as guaranteed under international human rights law and standards and the country’s own Constitution.”

Nigerians on social media also reacted strongly. Many viewed the chairman's threat as a sign of misplaced priorities, arguing that political intimidation should not replace performance and community development. Concerns were raised about how such divisions would be enforced and the potential for local violence, with calls for higher authorities to intervene.

“

Mr Shekwolo “is a danger to society and must be held to account for threatening violence on those who may not vote for APC.”