The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has issued a strong statement calling on the Federal Government to address the glaring double standards in its handling of citizens’ actions, warning that such inconsistencies could erode trust in institutions and fuel widespread discontent.
CUPP also endorsed the demand by elder statesman and Leader of the Niger Delta, Chief Edwin Clark, for the arrest of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to face treason charges. This call follows Wike’s recent threat to set fire in states that interfere in the ongoing political crisis between him and Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State over the control of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) structure.
In a statement by its National Secretary, Peter Ameh, CUPP emphasized the need for equal treatment of all citizens, regardless of their social standing or political affiliations. Ameh highlighted the disturbing trend of double standards in addressing citizens’ actions, which he believes has far-reaching implications for national trust and stability.
Double Standards and Inconsistencies
Ameh pointed out that the government’s response to Wike’s inflammatory statement has been notably lenient compared to its treatment of citizens participating in peaceful protests. “The recent events in our nation have highlighted a disturbing trend – the application of double standards in addressing citizens’ actions. This inconsistency has far-reaching implications, eroding trust in institutions and fueling discontent among the populace,” he said.
Wike’s threat to “put fire” in states across the federation, which could potentially incite violence and destabilize the country, was met with relative silence from authorities. In contrast, citizens participating in peaceful protests have faced harsh repercussions for exercising their constitutional rights.
Call for Accountability and Equality
CUPP stressed that such double standards undermine the rule of law, creating an environment where some individuals feel entitled to disregard the rights of others. Ameh emphasized that no citizen, regardless of their status, should be above reproach or below accountability.
“Those who make statements that could lead to anarchy, like Governor Wike, must be held accountable for their words. Similarly, citizens participating in peaceful protests must be protected and not subjected to unjust treatment,” he said.
Impact on National Unity
The application of double standards, according to CUPP, threatens national unity, fostering resentment and division. Ameh concluded that it is the collective responsibility of all Nigerians to demand equal treatment for all citizens, ensuring that the nation is built on the principles of justice, equity, and fairness.
“Ultimately, the application of double standards threatens our national unity, fostering resentment and division. It is our collective responsibility to demand equal treatment for all citizens, ensuring that our nation is built on the principles of justice, equity, and fairness. Only then can we truly move forward, united in our pursuit of a better future,” Ameh stated.
