Mobolaji Michael
THE Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has described as double standard the decision by security agencies to look the other way to the potentially incendiary statement credited to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, wherein he threatened to ‘put fire’ in Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-controlled states that dare to lend support to Rivers State governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
CUPP, in a statement on Saturday by its National Secretary, High Chief Peter Ameh, maintained it is counter-intuitive that while Nigeria Police Force maintains a stoic silence on the obviously inciting comment, the same organisation did not hesitate to arraign and charge innocent #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protesters with treason.
According to Chief Ameh, a former chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), this inconsistency has far-reaching implications, eroding trust in institutions and fueling discontent among the populace. “It is imperative that we confront this issue head-on, ensuring equal treatment for all citizens, regardless of their social standing or political affiliations.”
Chef Ameh further noted that “This double standard in treatment is unacceptable, sends a dangerous message that those in positions of power can incite chaos with impunity, while ordinary citizens are punished for seeking redress through peaceful means. Such double standards undermine the rule of law, creating an environment where some individuals feel entitled to disregard the rights of others.
He further noted that to address this issue, law enforcers must recognize the inherent value of equality before the law. “No citizen, regardless of their status, should be above reproach or below accountability. Those who make statements that could lead to anarchy, like Wike, must be held accountable for their words. Similarly, citizens participating in peaceful protests must be protected and not subjected to unjust treatment.
“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.”
Eighteen-Eleven Media