Holding Caucus Meeting At Presidential Villa Is Abuse Of Power – CUPP Slams APC
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) for holding its caucus meeting at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, describing the move as an abuse of power.
In a statement on Thursday, CUPP National Secretary, Chief Peter Ameh, faulted the use of the Presidential Villa for political gatherings, stating, “The Presidential Villa, the official residence and workplace of the President of Nigeria, is a symbol of national unity and the seat of power.
“It is a place where important national decisions are made and where the President receives visiting dignitaries.”
He argued that allowing the APC to use the facility for its meetings compromises the distinction between state resources and party affairs, adding, “The hosting of the APC National Caucus meeting at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa should be widely criticized as an abuse of power.”
“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. This creates an uneven playing field and undermines the democratic process.”
He warned that such actions set a troubling precedent.
“It suggests that the ruling party is above the law and can use state institutions for their partisan purposes. This erosion of the separation of powers and the politicisation of state institutions can have far-reaching consequences for the stability of the country.”
Ameh also criticised the decision to hold the meeting amid national challenges.
“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.
“Hosting of APC functions at the Presidential Villa is a clear abuse of power and a violation of the principles of democracy and fairness. It is essential that the ruling party respects the neutrality of the Presidential Villa and ensures that it is made available to all registered political parties.”
Ameh concluded by warning that failing to address the issue would amount to a betrayal of public trust.
“Anything less would be a betrayal of the trust placed in them by the Nigerian people.”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
