Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has raised alarm over recent inflammatory remarks by Felix Morka, the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), targeting Peter Obi, the former Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023 election.
Atiku described the comments as emblematic of a troubling trend within the President Bola Tinubu administration: silencing opposition voices through intimidation and detention.
Morka’s statement that Obi has “crossed the line” marks a worrying disregard for democratic principles and civil discourse. In a democratic society, opposition figures like Obi play a critical role in holding the government accountable and fostering healthy debate. Threatening language, however, risks undermining these values and casts a shadow over Nigeria’s democratic progress.
Atiku emphasized that the APC’s approach, particularly the insinuation that Obi must “be ready for whatever comes his way,” demands immediate clarification. Such ominous rhetoric only deepens public concerns about the government’s tolerance for dissent.
Adding to these concerns is the continued detention of Mahdi Shehu, a vocal critic of the administration, without a clear explanation. This, coupled with the vilification of opposition figures, suggests a shift towards authoritarianism that has no place in a democratic Nigeria.
Atiku also criticized Morka’s portrayal of Obi’s calls for constructive engagement as akin to a “lawless Wild West,” calling it a reckless and degrading characterization. He urged the APC to issue a public apology to Peter Obi and the Nigerian people for this unacceptable rhetoric.
Highlighting the importance of a thriving opposition in a democratic system, Atiku called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to immediately halt these oppressive tactics and foster a climate of respect for dissenting voices. “The time has come,” Atiku urged, “for all Nigerians of goodwill to stand together against this assault on democratic freedoms.”
The PDP leader reaffirmed that the government’s primary duty is to listen to critics, not silence them, and to engage in meaningful dialogue to strengthen governance and promote public accountability. He warned that the current trajectory risks damaging the democratic fabric of the nation.
