Peter Obi, former presidential candidate, has alleged receiving threats after his New Year statement, which criticized Nigeria’s state of affairs and called for urgent reforms.
In a post on his X account on Monday, Obi questioned whether his remarks had crossed any boundaries. “Have I really crossed the line?” he wrote, referencing a specific warning from APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka, who accused him of overstepping and warned of “serious repercussions.”
Obi invited anyone who believed his comments were inappropriate to highlight their concerns, reiterating his commitment to speaking truthfully and respectfully about Nigeria’s challenges. He condemned the suppression of free expression in the country, warning of a slide into authoritarianism and advocating for a freer society for future generations.
In his New Year address, Obi criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its handling of Nigeria’s economic, political, and security crises. He called for decisive action to restore hope, citing the country’s decline from Africa’s largest economy to the fourth-largest and its status as a global poverty hotspot. Obi also highlighted worsening insecurity and the rising number of internally displaced persons (IDPs), demanding immediate solutions to these pressing issues.
Responding to Obi’s comments, Felix Morka defended the Tinubu administration, citing progress in areas such as foreign direct investment, foreign reserves, and a reduction in debt servicing ratios as evidence of economic recovery.
The exchange underscores the growing political tension in Nigeria as leaders and their supporters debate solutions to the country’s challenges.
Obi concluded his post by saying:”Have I really crossed the line? I ask this because my New Year message has led to threats against my life, my family, and those around me. While Iâve received many responses, Mr. Felix Morka went further, accusing me of ‘crossing the line’ and warning of consequences.
*If I have truly crossed any line, I invite anyone to point it out. I remain committed to decorum but will not be silenced in speaking the truth, especially as our nation drifts towards undemocratic practices.
We are increasingly becoming an authoritarian regime suppressing free speech. May God help us create a freer, better society for our children.
