Peter Obi, Presidential candidate of the Labour Party LP, said he has received death threats over his recent comments on the Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement by Yunusa Tanko on his X handle, Obi quoted Felix Marka, the All Progressive Congress APC National Publicity Secretary as saying that “Mr. Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times and he has what’s coming to him, and whatever he gets, he should manage it.”
Obi said this “ is considered a direct threat to Mr. Obi’s life, and the peace of the Nigerian state.”
Tanko, writing on behalf of the Obidient Movement, expressed displeasure and concern over the comments made by Mr. Felix Morka, the APC National Publicity Secretary, on Arise TV on January 5, 2025.
“We view this as not only an attack on Mr. Peter Obi but also a dangerous signal of Nigeria’s descent into authoritarianism under the current administration. Such a declaration from the spokesperson of the ruling party is reckless, unbecoming, and a blatant endorsement of violence,” he said.
The movement noted that “Mr. Peter Obi’s commitment to Nigeria has been consistently demonstrated through his issue-based politics, his relentless pursuit of solutions to national challenges, and his respect for democratic principles.
“His New Year address, which critically evaluated the state of the nation and offered practical solutions, was devoid of personal attacks, hate, or incitement. It was a message of hope and a call for decisive action to rescue Nigeria.”
“ Who drew the red line that has been crossed We demand answers to critical questions”
The Movement also sought to know “What line did Mr. Peter Obi cross?
Who drew this so-called line, and on what authority?
What specific statements or actions of his justify such an ominous threat? What exactly is coming to him?
“The Nigerian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression and the protection of life. It is unacceptable that a government sworn to uphold these principles now seeks to silence dissenting voices with threats.”
They also described Morka’s statement as a “ dangerous signal “ which confirmed Peter Obi’s claims that his life and businesses had come under attacks over his stance on the issues affecting Nigerians
“Felix Morka’s statement confirms what Mr. Peter Obi has repeatedly pointed out—that his life, his business, and all he represents are under coordinated attacks aimed at silencing his voice and that of his supporters at large.
“This administration has chosen repression over dialogue, intimidation over engagement, and threats over democratic discourse.
“We categorically state that if any harm befalls Mr. Peter Obi, his family, or anyone associated with him, the Nigerian government and its agents will be held directly responsible. Nigerians and the international community must take note of this emerging pattern of repression and act to hold those in power accountable.”
“The Obidient Movement will not be cowed into silence. We stand firmly with Mr. Peter Obi and his vision for a just, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria. We call on Nigerians to resist this slide into authoritarianism by continuing to demand accountability, justice, and the protection of democratic values.
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The Movement urged “ the security services to not sweep such threats under the carpet as they had done in previous times but engage Mr Morka to elucidate on his utterance.
“Furthermore, the ruling party to call to order their mouth piece and members at large to desist from actions that could heat up the polity. In addition, the government of the day should foster an environment of noble ideas to shape our national discourse and not threats.”
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