The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has alleged receiving threats against himself, his family, and associates following his New Year message addressing President Bola Tinubu. Obi shared his concerns on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, where he questioned the accusations and threats directed at him.
In his post, Obi stated:
“Have I really crossed the line? My New Year message has now led to threats against my life, my family, and those around me. One Mr. Felix Morka has accused me of ‘crossing the line’ and warned that I will face the consequences. I will not be silenced in my resolve to speak truthfully, especially as our nation drifts toward undemocratic practices. We are increasingly becoming an authoritarian and repressive regime. May God help us create a better society for our children.”
Obidient Movement Condemns Threats
Obi’s supporters, under the Obidient Movement, also condemned what they described as “open threats” made by the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, during a recent interview. Speaking through their spokesperson, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, the group called the statement reckless and an endorsement of violence.
Yunusa criticized Morka’s remarks, stating:
“On January 5, during an Arise TV interview, Mr. Morka declared that ‘Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times and has what’s coming to him.’ This is a direct threat to Obi’s life and a dangerous signal of Nigeria’s descent into authoritarianism. We demand the APC clarify what ‘lines’ Obi crossed and on whose authority these lines were drawn.”
The group emphasized the constitutional right to free speech and warned that any harm to Obi or his associates would be met with accountability demands from Nigerians and the international community.
APC Denies Threat Allegations
In response, the APC dismissed claims that Morka threatened Obi, accusing his supporters of spreading false information. In a tweet, the APC stated:
“Typical ‘Obidients’ have resorted to false and malicious information suggesting that Felix Morka threatened Peter Obi’s life. As the clip and transcript show, Morka’s response contains no threats.”
The APC provided a transcript of the interview where Morka criticized Obi’s political commentary, labeling it “irrational” and accusing him of “sulking” over his electoral defeat. While Morka admitted Obi had “crossed the line so many times,” he clarified that his remarks were not intended as a threat.
Calls for Dialogue Over Intimidation
The Obidient Movement urged the ruling party to prioritize dialogue and accountability over intimidation. They called on security agencies to investigate the remarks and ensure the safety of all parties involved.
“Our nation must resist this slide into authoritarianism. The government should foster an environment where ideas shape national discourse, not threats,” Yunusa concluded.
As tensions escalate, stakeholders are calling for restraint and a renewed commitment to democratic principles in Nigeria.
