The chairman of Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Danjuma Shekwolo, has withdrawn his earlier statement asking residents to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) or leave the council.

Shekwolo said the comment, which attracted criticism after a video of him went viral, was made during a meeting with APC youths and supporters. He said it was not intended to deny anyone their rights because of their political affiliation.

In the video, Shekwolo said he would not tolerate opposition from residents who had benefited from the efforts of President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

“I have said in my area council, it’s either you are doing APC or leave the area council. I am not arguing with you,” he said.

However, in a statement on Wednesday, the chairman clarified that the remarks were made during a discussion about administrative efficiency, local development and the welfare of residents.

“You may recall that the event that led to the unfortunate incidents was a meeting with the APC party youths and loyalists,” he said.

Shekwolo admitted that, as council chairman, he had no power to take away the fundamental rights of any resident.

He assured residents that his administration would continue to govern fairly and work for the development of all communities in Kuje.