APC and Peter Obi Supporters Clash Over Alleged Threat to Former Governor’s Life
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and supporters of Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi have exchanged accusations over an alleged threat to the former Anambra State governor’s life.
The controversy began during an Arise Television interview on Sunday, where APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka criticized Obi’s recent remarks about President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Morka accused Obi of attempting to incite Nigerians and warned, “he has coming to him whatever he gets.”
Morka stated, “Mr. Obi is shooting from the hip… irrational in his thinking about a man who was governor for eight years and left nothing to remember in Anambra State… He has crossed the line so many times, and I think that at this point, he has coming to him whatever he gets.”
In reaction, Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, condemned Morka’s comments, labeling them as a veiled threat. He warned that any attempt to harm Obi or intimidate his supporters would provoke public backlash.
“That is a threat. If they make the move [to arrest Obi], it will boomerang on their government,” Tanko said. He called on security agencies to investigate Morka’s statement and ensure accountability.
Tanko emphasized Obi’s right to critique the government and accused the APC of attempting to suppress dissent. “We Nigerians have the right, as covered under the constitution, to speak to issues. Criticizing them uplifts our democracy,” he added.
Peter Obi also responded via his official X handle, expressing disbelief over the situation. He claimed his New Year message, intended to inspire hope, had been misconstrued as an attack on the government.
“Have I really crossed the line? My New Year message has now led to threats against my life, my family, and those around me,” Obi wrote. He reaffirmed his commitment to speaking truth to power and cautioned against Nigeria’s slide into authoritarianism.
Meanwhile, Bala Ibrahim, National Publicity Director of the APC, defended Morka, dismissing allegations of a threat. Ibrahim accused Obi’s supporters of overreacting and urged them to avoid divisive rhetoric.
“They are taking politics to a different level… There is nothing threatening or harmful in what Felix Morka said,” Ibrahim argued. He called on Obi to caution his supporters against inflammatory language.
When contacted, Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi stated he was unaware of any formal complaint regarding threats to Obi’s life. “I’m not aware of what you are saying. Has he informed us?” Adejobi queried.
The incident has sparked widespread debate, with citizens questioning the state of free speech and political discourse in Nigeria. Many await further developments as the APC and the Obidient Movement continue their war of words.