By Jane Okeke
The Accord Party in the Federal Capital Territory has called for an immediate investigation into a viral video allegedly showing the newly sworn-in Chairman of Kuje Area Council making statements suggesting that residents must support the All Progressives Congress, APC, or leave the area council.
The FCT Chairman of the Accord Party, Barr. Vaniah Akanimoh Agbon, made the call while addressing journalists in Abuja, describing the reported remarks as disturbing and inconsistent with the principles of constitutional democracy if the video is authenticated.
Agbon quoted the Chairman as saying, “It’s either you are doing APC or leave the Area Council,” and “It’s either you are with us, or you are against us.”
According to him, Kuje Area Council belongs to all its residents, regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, religion, origin or voting preference, stressing that elected public officials are expected to serve all constituents without discrimination.
The Accord Party chairman said no public officer has the constitutional authority to compel citizens to support a particular political party or make political loyalty a condition for living peacefully in an area council.
He maintained that political disagreement should not be treated as hostility, noting that citizens have the right to freely choose their political parties and candidates, criticise government and participate in elections without fear of intimidation or victimisation.
The party consequently called on the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant security agencies to authenticate the video, establish its context and circumstances, and invite the Kuje Area Council Chairman for questioning over the statements attributed to him.
It also urged the authorities to determine whether the alleged remarks violate any applicable laws and assess their potential security implications, particularly regarding intimidation, political suppression and possible conflict.
Agbon appealed to residents of Kuje to remain peaceful, law-abiding and vigilant, while urging them to report any threats, harassment or victimisation based on political affiliation to the appropriate authorities.
He also called on the Kuje Area Council Chairman to clarify his position publicly and reaffirm his commitment to serving all residents, irrespective of how they voted. The Accord Party said it would continue to defend democratic rights and the rule of law through lawful and democratic means.
