Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised Felix Morka, the APC Publicity Secretary, for his incendiary remarks about Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State.
Atiku described the comments as ‘a troubling reflection of President Bola Tinubu led administration’s attitude towards opposition voices.’
On January 5, 2025, during a national television appearance, Mr Morka accused Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), of crossing the line ‘so many times’, adding that whatever consequences he faced, he should accept and manage.
The New Daily Prime reported that Obi responded on his X page, revealing he had received several threats to his life, family, and associates following Morka’s statement.
According to Obi, Morka’s warning about ‘crossing the line’ has only intensified the wave of threats against him.
Reacting to these development , Atiku, the 2023 presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in a statement on his X page today, expressed deep concern over what he described as a dangerous shift towards authoritarianism under Tinubu’s administration.
READ ALSO: Obi alleges threat to life over criticism of Tinubu’s administration
He cited Obi’s threats and the prolonged detention of dissenting voices like Mahdi Shehu as evidence of a troubling pattern aimed at stifling opposition.
Atiku condemned Morka’s choice of words, particularly the ‘crossed the line’ remark, which he described as an ominous and undemocratic expression.
He argued that such language, rooted in hostility, has no place in a free society where civil discourse and engagement should be prioritized.
“A true democracy thrives on the healthy exchange of ideas, where the criticisms and contributions of opposition leaders, like Peter Obi, are seen as vital for the betterment of governance and the promotion of public accountability.
“It is not merely the right, but the solemn duty of a democratic government to listen attentively to the voices of its critics, to engage in meaningful dialogue, and to allow space for the articulation of alternative viewpoints. Instead, we are faced with a chilling threat that suggests Obi must ‘be ready for whatever comes his way’”, said Atiku.
He challenged Morka to clarify the meaning behind his ‘crossed line’ comment, stressing the need for the ruling party to address the disturbing insinuation with transparency.
He described as troubling the crude and disparaging tone used by the APC spokesperson in portraying Obi’s calls for constructive engagement, likening them to a chaotic Wild West scenario.
Atiku noted that such reckless and derogatory remarks were unacceptable, emphasising that the APC must issue a formal apology to Obi and Nigerians for such disgraceful language.
READ ALSO: APC tackles Obi on alleged poor governance
He added, “The case of Mallam Shehu, languishing in detention without any clear explanation for his continued imprisonment, adds to the growing concern about the erosion of freedoms in Nigeria. If there is anyone who has truly ‘crossed the line,’ it is the Tinubu administration, whose continuous vilification of opposition figures as mere irritants to be crushed is a dangerous precedent.
“It is now time for all men and women of goodwill to intervene, urging the Tinubu government to recalibrate its approach to dealing with dissent and opposition. The time has come to put an end to this stifling of voices that are crucial to the health of any functioning democracy.”
