THERE is a disturbing and increasingly dangerous belief among some Nigerian politicians that political power confers the right to intimidate, threaten and silence citizens. It does not. Such conduct is not politics; it is an assault on democracy, citizenship and basic decency.The latest manifestation of this political arrogance came from Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, where chairman Samuel Shekwolo reportedly told residents who do not support the All Progressives Congress to leave the council ahead of the 2027 elections.This dangerous threat must not be dismissed as another political rhetoric.In a video circulated on social media, Shekwolo declared: “I have said in my area council that it’s either you are for the APC, or you leave the area council.”What an outrageous proposition!A council chairman has absolutely no authority to threaten political opponents with expulsion from their homes. Kuje is not Shekwolo’s fiefdom, and its residents are not his subjects.By this twisted logic, perhaps residents should present APC membership cards at the Kuje boundary before being permitted to enter.Landlords could perhaps demand proof of party membership before handing tenants their keys. Families might even be required to declare their political allegiance before being allowed to settle in the area.This is utter nonsense.More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. The latest manifestation of this political arrogance came from Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, where chairman Samuel Shekwolo reportedly told residents who do not support the All Progressives Congress to leave the council ahead of the 2027 elections.This dangerous threat must not be dismissed as another political rhetoric.In a video circulated on social media, Shekwolo declared: “I have said in my area council that it’s either you are for the APC, or you leave the area council.”What an outrageous proposition!A council chairman has absolutely no authority to threaten political opponents with expulsion from their homes. Kuje is not Shekwolo’s fiefdom, and its residents are not his subjects.By this twisted logic, perhaps residents should present APC membership cards at the Kuje boundary before being permitted to enter.Landlords could perhaps demand proof of party membership before handing tenants their keys. Families might even be required to declare their political allegiance before being allowed to settle in the area.This is utter nonsense.More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. This dangerous threat must not be dismissed as another political rhetoric.In a video circulated on social media, Shekwolo declared: “I have said in my area council that it’s either you are for the APC, or you leave the area council.”What an outrageous proposition!A council chairman has absolutely no authority to threaten political opponents with expulsion from their homes. Kuje is not Shekwolo’s fiefdom, and its residents are not his subjects.By this twisted logic, perhaps residents should present APC membership cards at the Kuje boundary before being permitted to enter.Landlords could perhaps demand proof of party membership before handing tenants their keys. Families might even be required to declare their political allegiance before being allowed to settle in the area.This is utter nonsense.More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. In a video circulated on social media, Shekwolo declared: “I have said in my area council that it’s either you are for the APC, or you leave the area council.”What an outrageous proposition!A council chairman has absolutely no authority to threaten political opponents with expulsion from their homes. Kuje is not Shekwolo’s fiefdom, and its residents are not his subjects.By this twisted logic, perhaps residents should present APC membership cards at the Kuje boundary before being permitted to enter.Landlords could perhaps demand proof of party membership before handing tenants their keys. Families might even be required to declare their political allegiance before being allowed to settle in the area.This is utter nonsense.More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. What an outrageous proposition!A council chairman has absolutely no authority to threaten political opponents with expulsion from their homes. Kuje is not Shekwolo’s fiefdom, and its residents are not his subjects.By this twisted logic, perhaps residents should present APC membership cards at the Kuje boundary before being permitted to enter.Landlords could perhaps demand proof of party membership before handing tenants their keys. Families might even be required to declare their political allegiance before being allowed to settle in the area.This is utter nonsense.More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. A council chairman has absolutely no authority to threaten political opponents with expulsion from their homes. Kuje is not Shekwolo’s fiefdom, and its residents are not his subjects.By this twisted logic, perhaps residents should present APC membership cards at the Kuje boundary before being permitted to enter.Landlords could perhaps demand proof of party membership before handing tenants their keys. Families might even be required to declare their political allegiance before being allowed to settle in the area.This is utter nonsense.More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. By this twisted logic, perhaps residents should present APC membership cards at the Kuje boundary before being permitted to enter.Landlords could perhaps demand proof of party membership before handing tenants their keys. Families might even be required to declare their political allegiance before being allowed to settle in the area.This is utter nonsense.More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Landlords could perhaps demand proof of party membership before handing tenants their keys. Families might even be required to declare their political allegiance before being allowed to settle in the area.This is utter nonsense.More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. This is utter nonsense.More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. More importantly, it is profoundly dangerous.Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Nigerians are citizens, not subjects. Kuje and Abuja belong to Nigerians of every faith, ethnicity, political persuasion and ideological inclination.Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Shekwolo is an elected local government chairman, not the landlord of Kuje. He does not own the area council, cannot determine who is entitled to live there and certainly cannot dictate how citizens must vote.Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Shekwolo must therefore not be allowed to get away with this undemocratic threat.The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. The Constitution protects freedom of expression and association, including the right of citizens to belong to and support political parties of their choice. Nothing in Nigeria’s constitutional order says that citizens may live in Kuje only if they support the party controlling the council.Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Shekwolo subsequently claimed that his words had been taken out of context. That explanation does little to neutralise the danger of what was said. Public officials must understand that words have consequences, particularly in an increasingly polarised political environment.Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Indeed, statements of this nature deserve serious scrutiny by the appropriate authorities. Where a public official makes a statement capable of intimidating citizens or inciting political violence, the proper response is not political indulgence but investigation. If an offence has been committed, the law must take its course.Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Barely two weeks earlier, Nigerians witnessed another frightening episode in Osun State. Senator Francis Fadahunsi, 74, was recorded threatening Accord Party members and their families with death ahead of the August 15 governorship election.The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. The police invited him to explain the remarks, while the Accord Party filed a criminal complaint.That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. That matter must not be allowed to disappear into oblivion. If a politician makes an inciting statement that violates the law, he must be investigated. If the evidence establishes an offence, he must be prosecuted. And if a court finds him guilty, the punishment prescribed by law must follow.That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. That is how a democracy deals with dangerous behaviour, not by looking away because the perpetrator happens to be politically connected.Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Osun has already demonstrated the potentially lethal consequences of an unhealthy political atmosphere. Before the August 15 election, the police reported at least 30 politically motivated killings. More killings were reportedly recorded afterwards.This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. This is precisely why reckless statements by politicians such as Fadahunsi and Shekwolo must not be treated as harmless political banter. They create fear, embolden supporters and reinforce the poisonous notion that elections are wars in which opponents must be crushed rather than democratic contests in which citizens freely choose their leaders.Related NewsRenewed Hope Ambassadors will partner campaign council for Tinubu’s reelection –UzodimmaAtiku’s suit against Tinubu’s 2027 bid stalls over service2027: Turaki PDP backs opposition push to oust TinubuThe problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. The problem is not confined to Kuje or Osun.Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State told Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to inform him before coming to Edo State, or he (Obi) should live with the consequences of his decision. This is unstatesmanlike. Okpebholo is also of the APC, the ruling party.In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. In April, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said that if it were possible, he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye through his TV screen after the journalist raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state. Wike later clarified his remarks, but the damage had already been done.An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. An Islamic cleric, Sani Jingir, also recently described Christians as “infidels” while advocating support for a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the APC. Such rhetoric is particularly irresponsible in a country where religious divisions have repeatedly been exploited for political purposes.Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Nigeria desperately needs a cleaner, more mature political culture. And it can learn from other African democracies.In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. In 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party accepted electoral defeat and peacefully handed power to Duma Boko and the opposition coalition. Masisi himself described accepting defeat and ensuring a smooth transition as fundamental to democratic consolidation.Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Senegal, too, has been pursuing national dialogue on political reform. President Bassirou Faye has explicitly affirmed that the opposition must be free to exercise its rights.These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. These examples expose the poverty of Nigeria’s political culture. Losing an election is not an act of treason.Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Supporting the opposition is not a crime. Dissent is an integral part of democracy. Criticising the government is not an invitation to violence.And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. And living in a particular community does not require citizens to swear allegiance to the ruling party.It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. It is a concern that APC members and officials are behind the growing culture of belligerence and intolerance. The party should look inward and stop weaponising its hold on power against citizens.The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. The APC must therefore allow Nigerians to decide whom to vote for in Kuje and everywhere else in the country. That is their constitutional right.Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Shekwolo’s “support us or get out” proposition portrays him, and, by extension, any political party that tolerates such language, as insecure, intolerant and utterly contemptuous of democratic choice.As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria needs politicians who understand that political opponents are fellow citizens, not enemies to be expelled, threatened or silenced.It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. It is equally important for Nigerians to come out and vote and insist on the secrecy of the ballot as expressly required by the Electoral Act.That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. That secrecy is fundamental because a voter must be able to enter a polling booth, make a personal choice and leave without anyone knowing which candidate received that vote.That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. That is the protection against precisely the kind of political intimidation now being threatened.An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. An example must therefore be made of politicians who make incendiary statements. They must not routinely escape accountability behind the convenient claim that they were “misunderstood”.Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Words uttered by leaders carry weight. They can inflame supporters, legitimise threats and trigger consequences that cannot be withdrawn with a press statement the following morning.Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Political parties have a constitutional right to seek votes. They have no right to demand them.The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. The ballot is the only legitimate weapon in an election. Not threats. Not intimidation. Not violence. Not expulsion.Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this. Shekwolo and others of his ilk must be made to understand this.