The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on President Bola Tinubu and All Progressives Congress (APC), to arrest Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the party over a perceived threat directed at Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections.
HURIWA demanded that security agencies investigate the incident and ensure Peter Obi’s safety, warning that if any harm comes to him, Morka and the APC leadership would bear responsibility.
During a live television appearance, Morka reportedly said Obi “has crossed the line so many times and has what’s coming to him, and whatever he gets, he should manage it.” HURIWA described the statement as a direct threat to democracy, freedom of speech, and the safety of opposition voices.
The rights group decried Morka’s remarks as an alarming signal of authoritarian tendencies, emphasizing that such rhetoric undermines the principles of democratic governance. “This language is not just undemocratic but dangerous, as it seeks to intimidate and silence opposition voices,” the association stated.
HURIWA called for Morka’s immediate arrest and investigation, arguing that his comments constitute a threat to Obi’s safety and violate constitutional freedoms.
“Nigeria is not a one-party state,” HURIWA affirmed. “The APC does not own Nigeria; the people do. Citizens have the inalienable right to criticize government policies without fear of intimidation or threats.”
The association also pointed to a troubling pattern of inflammatory statements from Morka, alleging a consistent effort to suppress dissent. “Morka’s behavior is reminiscent of authoritarian regimes, not a democracy,” HURIWA declared, urging the APC to discipline him and remove him from his role as spokesperson.
The group further emphasized the role of opposition leaders in holding governments accountable and improving governance. “Intimidating or silencing critics undermines democracy at its core,” HURIWA noted.
Expressing concern over an increasing climate of fear, the association urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to uphold democratic principles and distance himself from such threats. “The president must prioritize dialogue and engagement over intimidation. A government that silences critics is not a government for the people,” HURIWA stressed.
HURIWA concluded with a call to Nigerians and the international community to resist any attempts to erode democratic freedoms. “Protecting free speech and opposition voices is vital for the survival of Nigeria’s democracy,” the group asserted.
