The Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo, has said remarks he made in a viral video were “taken out of context” after the comments triggered widespread criticism and condemnation.
Shekwolo gave the clarification in a video shared by Instablog9ja on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, amid growing debate over his comments ahead of the 2027 elections.
Shekwolo Explains Viral Remarks
In the earlier video, Shekwolo was heard telling residents who did not support the All Progressives Congress to leave the area council.
“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 said.
He linked the remarks to development projects associated with President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, adding that he would not accept residents supporting opposition efforts during the election.
“It’s either you are with us or you are against us,” he said.
But responding to the backlash, Shekwolo said the comments had been presented without their full context.
“Certain statements I made were taken out of context, leading to a distorted narrative,” he said.
Amnesty International Condemns Comments
The original remarks drew strong condemnation, particularly from Amnesty International Nigeria.
The organisation described the comments as a “call to violence” and an attack on freedom of association and personal liberty. It also urged security agencies to intervene.
Other residents and groups criticised the remarks as intimidating and inappropriate for an elected official, particularly with Nigeria approaching the 2027 general elections.
Aides Also Clarify Statement
Shekwolo’s latest clarification follows an earlier attempt by his aides to explain the remarks.
His Chief Protocol Officer, Tumaka Danlami Stephen, and other council representatives said the comments were misunderstood and were intended as political mobilisation and an appeal for residents to support the administration in view of development projects in Kuje.
The council administration also maintained that it remains committed to serving residents regardless of their political affiliations.
Political Debate Continues
Shekwolo was elected as Kuje Area Council chairman in the February 2026 FCT Area Council elections on the APC platform.
His clarification has added another layer to the controversy, with online reactions continuing to focus on the limits of political mobilisation and the right of residents to support parties of their choice.
The incident comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with officials and politicians facing increased scrutiny over statements made during public engagements.
