The Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Danjuma Shekwolo, has withdrawn his earlier statement suggesting that residents should support the All Progressives Congress or leave the council.
Shekwolo made the clarification on Wednesday following widespread criticism over a video in which he was heard making the controversial statement during a meeting with APC youths and supporters.
The chairman said the remark was made in the course of a discussion with party supporters and was not meant to suggest that residents would lose their rights or be forced out of the council because of their political affiliation.
The video had attracted public attention after Shekwolo appeared to tell residents that he would not accept opposition from people who had benefited from the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Following the reaction to the statement, the council chairman explained that the discussion was connected to issues concerning the administration of the area council, development and the welfare of residents.
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Shekwolo acknowledged that his position as council chairman did not give him the authority to take away the fundamental rights of any resident based on political views or party membership.
He said the meeting where the statement was made was attended by APC youths and supporters and that the remarks should be understood within the context of the discussion that took place at the gathering.
The chairman assured residents of Kuje that his administration would continue to treat people fairly, regardless of their political affiliations.
He also said the council would remain focused on developing the various communities under its control and improving the welfare of residents.
The clarification came after the chairman’s earlier comments sparked concerns over political tolerance and the rights of residents within the FCT council.
Shekwolo’s withdrawal of the statement is expected to ease concerns among residents who interpreted his earlier remarks as a threat to people who support political parties other than the APC.
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