‘I’ve no authority to disenfranchise residents’: FCT council chair backtracks on ‘support APC or leave’ remark

The Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Danjuma Shekwolo, says he has no authority to infringe on the rights of any resident of the council.

Shekwolo had in a viral video on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, directed residents of Kuje to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) or leave the area council.

Addressing newsmen in Abuja on Wednesday, the chairman said he had no authority to disenfranchise any resident or citizen of Kuje Area Council of their fundamental human rights.

He said his remarks during a meeting with youths and loyalists of the APC were taken out of context and sensationalised across various news platforms and social media.

Shekwolo said the information circulated on some social media platforms created a distorted narrative regarding his administration’s core values and official stance.

Shekwolo stated: “The meeting in question was focused strictly on administrative efficiency, local development, and community welfare, with no intention of alienating any resident.

“My administration remains dedicated to equitable governance, community progress, and serving the best interests of all constituents, regardless of political affiliation, ethnic background, or religious beliefs.”

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The chairman urged journalists to uphold high professional standards by verifying the full context of statements before publishing any report, adding that it was a critical pillar of democracy.

He added: “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.

“Our doors remain open for constructive feedback, dialogue, and accurate reporting.”

The council boss called on residents to collaborate with his administration to advance the overall growth and development of the area council and the FCT.