The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP, has condemned what is called emerging pattern of using the Nigeria Police Force as an instrument for settling political disputes, particularly as witnessed in the recent confrontations at the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
CNPP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, James Ezema in a statement on Tuesday, said: “The troubling spectacle of police officers taking sides in an internal party quarrel is a gross violation of democratic norms and a dangerous abuse of state power.
“CNPP calls on President Bola Tinubu to immediately halt this disturbing trend and ensure that the police are not weaponised for political advantage under any guise.
“As the Commander-in-Chief, the President has a constitutional responsibility to guarantee the neutrality and professionalism of all security agencies. Anything short of this endangers the nation’s democratic architecture and erodes public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We also warn politicians within the opposition PDP to desist from actions capable of threatening national stability or undermining the integrity of the political process.
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“Internal disagreements must be resolved through established party mechanisms, not through crude displays of force or state-backed intimidation. No political actor has the right to drag public institutions into partisan conflicts.
“Furthermore, the umbrella body of all registered political parties and political associations in Nigeria urges all political parties to operate strictly within the provisions of their constitutions and the extant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Adherence to due process, rule of law, and internal democracy is essential for strengthening Nigeria’s political system and safeguarding the nation from avoidable crises.
“CNPP reiterates its commitment to defending democracy and ensuring that political competition remains peaceful, lawful, and fair. Nigeria’s democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of political desperation,” the statement added.
