Nigerian Council Chairman Threatens Residents Over 2027 Vote

The chairman of Kuje Area Council in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, Danjuma Shekwolo, has drawn widespread condemnation after telling residents they must support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections or leave the area council. The remarks, made during an event last Friday, were captured in a video that subsequently circulated on social media, sparking outrage from human rights advocates and members of the public.

Shekwolo was addressing leaders and candidates of the FCT Youth Network, a grassroots coalition, at an engagement ahead of the group’s leadership election. In the video, he issued an ultimatum to constituents. "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," he stated. He justified his stance by citing development efforts by the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the FCT Minister, 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."

The comments have ignited a fierce backlash, with critics highlighting that citizens are constitutionally entitled to support and vote for...