The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has strongly condemned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for hosting its caucus meeting at the Presidential Villa. According to Chief Peter Ameh, National Secretary of CUPP, this action is a clear abuse of power and a violation of the principles of democracy and fairness.
Ameh emphasized that the Presidential Villa is a symbol of national unity and the seat of power, where important national decisions are made and the President receives visiting dignitaries. However, the hosting of the APC National Caucus meeting at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa raises concerns about the misuse of the villa for partisan purposes.
“The villa belongs to all Nigerians, regardless of their party affiliation. By hosting APC functions at the villa, the ruling party is essentially using state resources for their political gain while excluding other registered political parties from accessing the same facilities,” Ameh said.
This action sets a dangerous precedent, suggesting that the ruling party is above the law and can use state institutions for their partisan purposes. Ameh noted that this erosion of the separation of powers and the politicization of state institutions can have far-reaching consequences for the stability of the country.
Furthermore, Ameh pointed out that the use of the Presidential Villa for partisan activities is a slap in the face of Nigerians who are struggling to make ends meet. At a time when the country is facing numerous challenges, including poverty, insecurity, and corruption, it is unacceptable that the ruling party is more concerned with consolidating its power than with addressing the pressing needs of the people.
In conclusion, Ameh emphasized that it is essential for the ruling party to respect the neutrality of the Presidential Villa and ensure that it is made available to all registered political parties. “Anything less would be a betrayal of the trust placed in them by the Nigerian people,” he added.