By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka in Abuja
The Accord Party in the FCT has raised alarm over alleged remarks by the new Executive Chairman of Kuje Area Council, warning that political intimidation has no place in Nigeria’s democracy.
The party referenced a video circulating on social media in which the Chairman was purportedly heard saying residents must either be _“doing APC”_ or leave the area council.
“If the video is authentic, the statements are deeply troubling. Nigerians have constitutional rights to freedom of movement, political participation and choice of association,”_ the party stated.
According to the Accord Party, the Chairman’s oath of office commits him to serve all residents impartially, including those who voted against him, those who did not vote, and members of other political parties.
The party listed six demands, including a thorough police investigation into the video, questioning of the Chairman, and an assessment of possible security implications such as intimidation and political suppression.
It also called on FCT authorities to act swiftly to ensure that no citizen is discriminated against based on political affiliation, and that Kuje remains open to all Nigerians.
“The idea that citizens must be either ‘with us’ or ‘against us’ has no place in constitutional democracy. A resident may support another party and still be entitled to government services and protection,”the party said.
The Accord Party urged Kuje residents to remain law-abiding and vigilant, and vowed to defend democratic principles through lawful means, stressing that “Kuje is for all Nigerians. Nigeria is for all Nigerians.”
