Obi raises alarm over death threats after New Year message
…Denies attempting to destabilise Tinubu’s Govt
By Sodiq Adelakun
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi has raised alarm over death threats issued against him following his criticism of the current administration.
The former Anambra State governor condemned the growing authoritarian tendencies of President Bola Tinubu’s government, accusing it of systematically suppressing dissent and free speech.
In a statement released on his official X.com (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Obi responded to remarks made by Felix Morka, the spokesperson for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reacting to Mr Obi’s New Year message, Mr Morka described the opposition figure as a “prophet of doom” and “voodoo economist,” who is “shooting from the hip.”
“He is not looking. He is not taking aim. He just shoots wildly, like what we used to see in the movies. He is not being rational.
“He is absolutely irrational in his thinking and public commentary. But Mr Obi has crossed the line so many times, and I think at this point, he has coming to him whatever he gets,” the APC spokesman declared.
Morka further added that Obi’s statements were both irrational and irresponsible, alleging that the Labour Party figure was attempting to destabilise Tinubu’s administration.
Obi, in his response, pointed out that the threats against his life, his family, and his loved ones were a direct consequence of Morka’s inflammatory comments.
Obi expressed grave concern over what he described as the increasing transformation of the current administration into an “authoritarian and repressive regime,” where critics are silenced, and freedoms curtailed.
He stated that his commitment to justice and truth would not be compromised, even in the face of intimidation.
“I will not be silenced, especially as our nation drifts toward undemocratic practices,” he declared.
Recall that in his New Year message, Obi had raised concerns about the deteriorating state of democracy in Nigeria, urging the government to ensure that fundamental rights, including freedom of speech, are protected.
However, his statements were met with harsh criticism from Morka, who accused him of continuing to “sulk” over his electoral defeat in the 2023 presidential election.
Obi’s message also touched on the issues of governance and the suppression of dissent, drawing parallels with authoritarian regimes.
Also, he lamented the growing climate of fear, warning that such practices could undermine Nigeria’s democratic future.
In response to Mr Morka’s alleged death threats against him, his family, and loved ones, Mr Obi wondered where he “crossed the line” in his New Year message and challenged anyone to watch the video and provide evidence of where he did so.
“Have I really crossed the line? I ask the question because my New Year message has now led to threats against my life, my family, and those around me. While I have received all sorts of messages, one Mr Felix Morka has gone further to accuse me of ‘crossing the line’ and has warned that I will face the consequences,” said Mr Obi.
“If I have truly crossed the line, I invite anyone to point it out, as I remain committed to upholding decorum. However, I will not be silenced in my resolve to speak truthfully, especially as our nation continues to drift toward undemocratic practices.”
Stating that the present administration is “increasingly transforming into an authoritarian and repressive regime, where freedom of expression is being systematically suppressed,” Mr Obi prayed to God to help create a better and freer society for the sake of children.
