A group, under the aegis of Concerned Citizens of Kuje Area Council, has raised concerns over alleged hate speech and inflammatory comments by some politicians, warning that they could trigger political violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a press conference in Kuje, the leader of the group, Dada Samuel Gado, said the group was worried about comments by some political leaders, particularly against the backdrop of reported incidents of violence in the area.
He said such comments could heighten fear and mistrust among residents, encourage retaliation and create conditions for a wider communal or political crisis.
Gado cited a recent inciting comment allegedly made by the incumbent chairman of the council, Danjuma Samuel Shekwolo.
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He described the comment as a threat to the peace, unity and harmonious coexistence of indigenes and residents of the council.
Gado said Kuje had a long history of peaceful coexistence among indigenous groups, including the Gbagyi, Gade and Gbari, as well as other communities that had lived, intermarried, traded and built their future together.
"Hence, we must not allow political differences to destroy such precious heritage, because Kuje Area Council is not the private property of any individual or political party; it belongs to all of us," he said.
The group also recalled a recent alleged attack on members of a political party during a meeting in the area by suspected thugs.
Gado said failure to address such incidents could lead to serious violence, particularly during the election period.
"Because what happened last week, when some group of thugs wielding cutlasses and sticks descended on some members of a political party holding a meeting, is uncalled for. Hence, we are calling on the police, DSS and other relevant security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure those involved are brought to book," he said.
The group called on the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to urgently intervene, ensure the alleged attack was investigated and caution political actors against statements or actions capable of threatening peace and security in Kuje and the FCT.
