The People’s Democratic Party Presidential Flag bearer in the 2024 Nigeria General Elections Alhaji Atiku Abubakar have reiterated that APC spokesman’s threat on labour party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s message signals shift towards authoritarian governance.
The Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemn the All Progressives Congress (APC) spokesman, Felix Morka’s remark about the former Anambra governor, Peter Obi, this is contained in a statement Atiku issued on Tuesday.
The APC spokesman, Felix Morka has been in the eye of the storm since a controversial remark about Peter Obi during a Sunday interview with Arise TV channel.
He stated that “Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times and he has what’s coming to him, and whatever he gets, he should manage it
In a reaction, Peter Obi alleges a threat to his life, family and business interests following his criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration in his New Year message.
In his statement, Atiku Abubakar said the APC spokesman’s “inflammatory remarks…serve as a disturbing emblem of the current administration’s unsettling strategy in addressing opposition figures”.
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said the threat against Obi and the detention of another opposition figure, Mahdi Shehu, “signals a worrisome shift towards an authoritarian governance model, where the rights of opposition voices are being suffocated”.
He added, “The choice of words used by the APC’s spokesperson, particularly the ominous suggestion that Obi has “crossed the line,” reveals an alarming disdain for democratic principles.
“Atiku believes such language, rooted in hostility, has no place in a free society where civil discourse and engagement should reign supreme. A true democracy thrives on the healthy exchange of ideas, where the criticisms and contributions of opposition leaders, like Peter Obi, are seen as vital for the betterment of governance and the promotion of public accountability.
“It is not merely the right, but the solemn duty of a democratic government to listen attentively to the voices of its critics, to engage in meaningful dialogue, and to allow space for the articulation of alternative viewpoints.
“Instead, we are faced with a chilling threat that suggests Peter Obi must “be ready for whatever comes his way.” What, exactly, does Mr. Morka imply by this? It is imperative that the ruling party provides clarity on this disturbing insinuation.”
Atiku Abubakar said it was equally troubling the crude and disparaging manner in which the APC spokesperson has framed Peter Obi’s calls for constructive engagement.
He noted that derogatory expressions cannot be tolerated, and it is incumbent upon the APC to issue a formal apology to Peter Obi and the Nigerian people for such disgraceful language.
“The case of Mallam Shehu, in detention without any clear explanation for his continued imprisonment, adds to the growing concern about the erosion of freedoms in Nigeria.
It is now time for all men and women of goodwill to intervene, urging the @officialABAT government to recalibrate its approach to dealing with dissent and opposition.
“The time has come to put an end to this stifling of voices that are crucial to the health of any functioning democracy,” Atiku stated.
