Caution Kuje chairman over threats to APC critics, ADC chieftain tells Wike

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress and public affairs analyst, Usman Okai Austin, has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to caution the Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo.
The call was over alleged threats against residents critical of the All Progressives Congress.
Okai made the call in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, following a viral comment allegedly attributed to the council chairman in which he warned social media critics that they would be tracked down and told residents who did not support the APC to leave the area.
The ADC chieftain said the alleged remarks were capable of escalating political tension and creating fear among residents, particularly if supporters interpreted them as a directive to act against perceived opponents.
“The Federal Capital Territory is home to all Nigerians, as well as the international community. We must not allow anyone to escalate tensions,” Okai said.
He warned that statements from elected officials carried significant weight and could have consequences if acted upon by their supporters.
“As an executive chairman, his words carry weight. If his supporters act on these threats, the security of the area council will be severely compromised,” he said.
Okai urged Shekwolo to exercise restraint and recognise that political disagreements should not degenerate into intimidation, threats or violence.
He also called on the council chairman to emulate political leaders known for peaceful engagement, citing former FCT Senator Philip Aduda as an example.

“Being a local government chairman does not mean one should lack administrative civility. Kuje is known for peace and tolerance, and the leadership must reflect that,” he said.
The ADC chieftain further urged security agencies to investigate the alleged comments and, where necessary, invite Shekwolo to clarify his position.
He said prompt intervention would help prevent the situation from escalating while reinforcing the responsibility of political office holders to protect residents irrespective of their political affiliations.