Social Democratic Party (SDP) has criticised the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for allegedly allocating Abuja Old Parade Ground to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the construction of its new national secretariat.
The national publicity secretary of SDP, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, in a statement released to newsmen yesterday in Abuja, said the action of granting permanent ownership of the historic national monument to the APC and waiving the required statutory charges was deemed unacceptable and a national fraud.
“The Old Parade Ground, Abuja, has a significant historical importance as the premier national arena designed for hosting independence day parades, cultural festivals, sporting events, and political gatherings. The decision to allocate a portion of this historic facility to a political party was reckless and condemnable,” he said.
He emphasised the party’s call on President Tinubu to override the FCT Minister’s decision, stressing the need for all Nigerians to resist such unpatriotic actions that deprive the nation of its heritage and assets.
Aiyenigba urged public office holders to prioritize due process, transparency, and accountability in their duties, and promised to continue advocating for the preservation of national heritage with other citizens to stand against wrong decisions that do not serve the true interest of the public.
The party vowed to lead the patriotic crusade for good public policy and safeguarding of Nigeria’s national assets.