The alleged threat against Peter Obi by Felix Morka, spokesperson for the APC, has sparked strong reactions.
Obi raised concerns about threats to his life after criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s government. In his New Year message, he criticized the administration for corruption, mismanagement, poverty, and rising debt.
Morka dismissed Obi’s criticism as “ridiculous” and said Obi lacked a legacy in Anambra. He also warned that Obi had crossed the line.
Obi claimed Morka told him he would face consequences for his statements and vowed to continue speaking out.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized Morka’s words. He said they were part of a strategy to suppress opposition voices. Atiku warned that such actions threaten democracy in Nigeria and hinder the exchange of ideas.
Atiku also mentioned the detention of voices like Mahdi Shehu, which he sees as an attack on freedoms.
The Labour Party issued a seven-day ultimatum to President Tinubu. They demanded he reprimand Morka for his remarks. They said Morka’s words were a threat to free speech and democracy.
Activist Deji Adeyanju condemned the threat against Obi. He said criticizing the government should not be a crime. He warned that Nigeria is slipping into dictatorship as opposition voices are silenced.
Morka denied threatening Obi. He said his words were misunderstood and not meant as a threat. He accused Obi of spreading lies and claimed Obi’s supporters intimidate those who disagree with him.
Morka defended his right to speak out and disagreed with Obi’s views. He said Obi must stop spreading misinformation.
The controversy highlights the growing tension between the opposition and the government. It raises concerns about free speech and the treatment of dissent in Nigeria.