Chief Peter Ameh criticised the use of the Presidential Villa for partisan activities, arguing that it undermines democratic principles and fairness.

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has condemned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for hosting its caucus meeting at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, calling it an abuse of power.

In a statement released on Thursday, by the National Secretary, Chief Peter Ameh criticised the use of the Presidential Villa for partisan activities, arguing that it undermines democratic principles and fairness.

“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,” Ameh stated.

He further argued that using the Villa for APC’s political meetings blurs the line between state resources and party interests, a move he believes should be condemned by all Nigerians.

“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,” he said.

Ameh called for strict adherence to democratic norms, urging all political parties to respect the neutrality of state institutions and avoid using national assets for party affairs.

The statement read, “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.”

According to Ameh, hosting of APC functions at the Presidential Villa sets a dangerous precedent.

He said, “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.

“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 added that anything less would be a betrayal of the trust placed in them by the Nigerian people.

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