The Conference of United Political Parties (CUPP) has condemned the recent punitive actions taken against former Senate Majority Whip, Senator Ali Ndume, by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and Senate leadership, labeling it a suppression of dissent and a threat to democracy.
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Chief Peter Ameh, National Secretary of CUPP, voiced these concerns in Abuja on Thursday.
Ameh emphasized that a healthy democracy must encourage and respect dissenting voices as they are crucial for informed decision-making.
“In a democracy, the separation of powers is essential to ensure checks and balances among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This prevents any single branch from abusing its power and promotes the protection of individual rights,” Ameh stated.
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He warned that the current trend in Nigeria’s 10th National Assembly, where dissent is being stifled, could lead to authoritarian rule.
Ameh further highlighted that the separation of powers supports the rule of law, ensuring equal treatment under the law, and strengthens public trust.
“Each branch must be able to make decisions independently, free from undue influence, to maintain constitutional integrity and preserve democratic foundations,” he added.
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He criticized the weak legislative leadership of the 10th National Assembly, arguing that it poses significant risks to Nigeria’s development and democratic health.
According to Ameh, it is troubling that a Senator could be reprimanded by his party and the Senate leadership for merely expressing widely held public concerns.
Senator Ndume, Ameh noted, was simply voicing the frustrations of many Nigerians affected by poor policy choices of the current administration.
“Instead of facing censure, Ndume should be commended for attempting to bring these issues to the attention of party leaders.”
“By stifling such critical voices, the government undermines the principles of democracy and risks eroding public trust and confidence,” Ameh concluded.
