The Chief Protocol Officer to the Chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Stephen Tumaka, has reportedly threatened residents who may choose not to support or vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Tumaka reportedly made the statement in a social media post, warning residents to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other APC candidates or risk being told that Kuje was not for them.
The development has sparked concerns about political intimidation and the freedom of residents to choose candidates and political parties of their choice ahead of the 2027 elections.
The reported statement comes shortly after similar remarks attributed to Kuje Area Council Chairman Samuel Danjuma Shekwolo, who was reported to have told residents that they should either support the APC or leave the council area.
The chairman reportedly linked his position to what he described as developmental efforts by President Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike in the area.
The remarks have attracted criticism from civil society organisations and political groups, who argue that elected officials have a responsibility to serve all residents regardless of their political affiliations.
Amnesty International previously condemned the chairman’s reported comments, warning that political support should not be made a condition for residents to live peacefully in Kuje or exercise their civic rights.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has also called for action over the chairman’s remarks, describing the reported threat as an attack on citizens’ constitutional rights and urging security authorities to investigate the matter.
The controversy comes as political activities intensify across Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections. Political parties are increasingly mobilising supporters and preparing their structures for the elections.
The latest development has renewed discussions about the need for political leaders to respect citizens’ freedom of political association and allow voters to make independent choices without intimidation.
Residents are legally entitled to support the political party or candidate of their choice, and political differences should be handled peacefully and within the law.
As reactions continue, attention is expected to focus on whether relevant authorities will investigate the reported statements and what measures may be taken to prevent political intimidation ahead of the 2027 elections.
