Amnesty International Nigeria has said the Federal Government and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration must be held accountable for any threats, harassment or intimidation faced by residents of Kuje Area Council before, during and after the 2027 general elections.
The rights organisation raised the alarm following alleged threats against residents who may choose not to support the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to Amnesty International Nigeria, the alleged threats came against the backdrop of a controversial statement attributed to the Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Samuel Shekwolo, who was reported to have issued an ultimatum that residents should either vote for the APC or leave Kuje.
The organisation also alleged that Stephen Tumaka, Chief Protocol Officer to the Kuje Area Council Chairman, threatened residents who do not intend to vote for the APC, with the post reportedly made on the same day the chairman allegedly issued the “vote APC or leave Kuje” ultimatum.
Amnesty International Nigeria described the development as deeply concerning and warned that public officials must be held accountable for statements or actions capable of undermining the democratic rights and safety of citizens.
The organisation said the government and relevant authorities must take responsibility for ensuring that residents of Kuje are protected from political intimidation, threats and harassment as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
It maintained that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to make independent political choices without fear, coercion or discrimination.
“Voting for a particular political party is not a condition for living in any part of Nigeria,” the organisation said, stressing that citizens must be free to support candidates and political parties of their choice.
Amnesty International Nigeria further called for accountability over the alleged remarks, insisting that no public office holder should be allowed to threaten or intimidate citizens on the basis of their political beliefs or electoral choices.
The organisation warned that failure to address such alleged threats could embolden political intimidation and undermine the principles of democratic participation ahead of the 2027 elections.
