APC Responds to Obi’s Allegations, Defends New Year Remarks Amid Life Threat Claims

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and supporters of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi clashed on Monday after Obi alleged a threat to his life following recent comments made by APC spokesperson, Felix Morka.

The dispute stemmed from a Sunday interview on Arise Television, where Morka accused Obi of overstepping bounds with his recent critiques of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Morka expressed frustration, claiming that Obi was trying to incite the public against the government, labeling his comments as reckless. He also warned that Obi might face consequences for his actions.

Morka criticized Obi’s approach, calling it erratic and unreasoned, particularly as it relates to Obi’s time as governor of Anambra State. He stated, “Instead of reflecting on why he lost, Obi is resorting to misleading the public with baseless claims aimed at bringing down the government.” He further suggested that Obi’s actions were unprovoked and warned that whatever comes his way is well-deserved.

In response, Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, condemned Morka’s statements, interpreting them as a threat. He warned the APC to desist from intimidating Obi, his family, or his associates, claiming that such actions would trigger a public backlash. Tanko emphasized that Obi had not defamed anyone and only spoke out on issues that directly affected Nigerians. He accused the government of suppressing opposition voices and predicted a strong public reaction if any unjust measures were taken against Obi.

Tanko also urged Nigerian security agencies to investigate Morka’s remarks, asserting that the Obidient Movement would not be intimidated into silence. He called for the government to foster an environment conducive to civil discourse, rather than resorting to threats. Tanko reiterated the right of Nigerians to speak out and hold the government accountable, as guaranteed by the constitution.

Peter Obi himself responded via his official X handle, expressing his dismay over the threats he had received in response to his New Year message. Obi questioned whether his comments had truly crossed a line, reiterating his commitment to speaking truth to power despite the threats. He highlighted concerns over the increasing authoritarian tendencies in the country, particularly the suppression of free speech.

The APC’s National Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, responded to the outcry, claiming that Morka’s comments were neither threatening nor insulting. Ibrahim urged Obi to call for an end to the exaggerated reactions from his supporters, noting that the political discourse should remain mature and free of insults. He emphasized that the APC was simply responding to Obi’s remarks and accused the opposition of taking the issue to a divisive and unproductive level.

In response to queries about the situation, Police Force spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi stated that he was unaware of the incident and was unable to comment on whether any threats had been made against either Obi or Morka.