Former Vice President and prominent political figure, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly criticized recent inflammatory remarks made by Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), against Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the last general election. Atiku described Morka’s comments as emblematic of an alarming shift towards authoritarianism under the current administration.
Morka’s assertion that Obi had “crossed the line” and must “be ready for whatever comes his way” was singled out as particularly troubling. Atiku warned that such statements reflect a deep disregard for democratic principles and stifle civil discourse, which is essential for the growth and accountability of any democratic government.
“The language used by the APC’s spokesperson is rooted in hostility and has no place in a free and democratic society,” Atiku stated. He emphasized that democracy thrives on open debate, constructive criticism, and diverse opinions, which opposition leaders like Peter Obi provide.
Atiku also pointed to the prolonged detention of prominent opposition voices, including activist Mahdi Shehu, as evidence of the government’s increasing intolerance for dissent. He questioned the justification for Shehu’s continued imprisonment, describing it as a worrying sign of Nigeria’s drift toward authoritarian governance.
The former vice president called on the APC to issue a formal apology to Obi and the Nigerian people for what he described as “reckless and derogatory” language. He also urged the Tinubu administration to clarify Morka’s disturbing insinuations and to recommit to upholding the principles of democracy.
“It is not merely a right but a duty for any government to listen to critics, engage in dialogue, and create space for alternative viewpoints. This is the hallmark of a functional democracy,” Atiku asserted.
More Read
He concluded with a call to action, urging Nigerians and the international community to demand a recalibration of the government’s approach to handling dissent. “The stifling of opposition voices is a dangerous precedent. Now, more than ever, we must protect the freedoms that form the bedrock of our democracy,” Atiku said.
