Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Danjuma Shekwolo, has clarified his earlier comment asking residents to support the All Progressives Congress or leave the council.
Shekwolo made the clarification on Wednesday following criticism over a video of him in which he said he would not tolerate opposition from residents who had benefited from the efforts of President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
In the video, Shekwolo said, “I have said in my area council, it’s either you are doing APC or leave the area council. I am not arguing with you.”
However, addressing journalists and stakeholders on Wednesday, the chairman said the remarks had been taken out of context and did not reflect his intention or the position of his administration.
“In public governance, clarity, truth, and transparency are essential. In recent days, certain statements I made were taken out of context and leading to a distorted narrative that does not reflect my true intent, core values, or the official position of this administration,” Shekwolo said in a video circulating online and posted on Facebook by LeadersNG.
He said the remarks were made during a meeting with APC youths and loyalists while discussing administrative efficiency, local development and community welfare.
“The remarks in question were made in a specific context aimed at addressing administrative efficiency, local development, and community welfare. You may recall that event that led to the unfortunate incident was a meeting with the APC party youths and loyalties,” he said.
The chairman acknowledged that he had no authority to disenfranchise residents or deny them their fundamental rights based on their political affiliation.
“And as the Executive Chairman of Kuje Area Council, I have no right to disenfranchise any residents or citizen of their fundamental human rights in the council,” he said.
He said his administration remained committed to inclusive governance, equity and the development of all communities in Kuje.
“At no point did I intend to cause disaffection, undermine any group, or promote policies that do not serve the best interest of our citizens,” Shekwolo said.
He urged residents, regardless of their political, religious or ethnic affiliations, to support efforts to develop the area council.
“I urge the people of Kuje Area Council and the general public, regardless of their political affiliation, religious, or ethnic difference, to join hands with the administration to make Kuje the area council of our dreams,” he said.
Shekwolo also appealed to the media to verify the context of statements before publication, describing the press and government as “partners in progress.”
