ADC Chieftain Urges Wike to Address Kuje Chairman's Alleged Threats
An African Democratic Congress chieftain, Okai Austin, has urged FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to caution Kuje Area Council Chairman Samuel Shekwolo over alleged divisive comments. Austin warned that Shekwolo's remarks, including threatening critics and non-APC supporters, could escalate political tensions and undermine peace in the Federal Capital Territory.
Okai Austin, a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and a recognized human rights activist, has issued a strong appeal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The appeal urges Minister Wike to intervene and caution the Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Samuel Shekwolo, concerning a series of alleged divisive comments that are feared to be capable of escalating political tensions within the area.
The call for intervention stems from a viral video that surfaced, reportedly showing Chairman Shekwolo making threats against critics on social media. Furthermore, he was accused of instructing residents who do not support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to leave the Kuje Area Council. These alleged remarks have sparked significant concern regarding political civility and social cohesion in the FCT.
Reacting to these grave allegations, Okai Austin unequivocally described the comments as "uncalled for" and inherently dangerous. He issued a stern warning that such inflammatory statements, particularly when made by public officials, possess the potential to significantly heighten tensions and could, if left unaddressed, lead to violence. Austin underscored the FCT's unique status as a home for all Nigerians and the international community, stressing the imperative to prevent any actions that could escalate existing tensions.
In his statement, Okai urged Chairman Shekwolo to demonstrate greater restraint in his public discourse and to actively embrace principles of peace, tolerance, and inclusiveness in the administration of the Kuje Area Council. He emphasized that leadership at all levels, especially grassroots officials, bears a crucial responsibility to ensure their pronouncements do not exacerbate divisions or foster unnecessary tension among community members, irrespective of their political affiliations. He further noted that Kuje is historically known for peace and tolerance, a characteristic its leadership should embody.
The ADC chieftain also called upon relevant authorities to meticulously examine the comments attributed to the council chairman. He stressed the importance of ensuring that all elected and appointed officials remain steadfastly committed to upholding peace and order across the FCT. Austin reiterated that political differences, while natural in a democratic society, must never be permitted to undermine the peaceful coexistence and harmony among the territory's diverse residents. He encouraged Shekwolo to draw inspiration from political leaders who have consistently championed dialogue and peaceful engagement, citing former FCT Senator Philip Aduda as a notable example of such leadership.
Concluding his appeal, Okai Austin reiterated his plea to Minister Wike and other pertinent authorities for prompt intervention before the situation potentially escalates further. He highlighted that responsible leadership is fundamentally predicated on restraint, tolerance, and a profound respect for divergent political opinions, principles he believes are essential for maintaining stability and unity in the FCT.