- Atiku Abubakar accuses the APC of suppressing dissent, citing threats against Peter Obi and the detention of critics like Mahdi Shehu
- He demands an apology from the APC for inflammatory remarks, emphasizing that a healthy democracy thrives on open dialogue and criticism
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of suppressing dissenting voices in Nigeria.
Atiku’s statement came in response to remarks made by APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, against Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the last general election.
On Monday, Obi alleged that his New Year message criticizing the current administration had triggered threats to his life and family. Morka, during an interview on Arise Television, said Obi “has crossed the line so many times and has it coming to him whatever he gets.”
Morka also dismissed Obi’s critique of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government as “ridiculous and deceptive,” adding that Obi had no meaningful legacy during his tenure as Anambra State Governor.
Reacting via a statement on X, Atiku, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the last election, described the situation as a worrying indication of the APC’s approach to handling opposition voices.
He highlighted the alleged threats against Obi and the continued detention of dissenters like Mahdi Shehu as signs of an authoritarian trend.
“This shift undermines democratic principles and suggests a governance model where opposition voices are being stifled,” Atiku said.
Atiku called on the APC to apologize to Nigerians and Obi for Morka’s remarks, particularly the suggestion that Obi had “crossed the line.” He criticized the language as undemocratic and inappropriate in a free society.
“A healthy democracy thrives on open dialogue and the exchange of ideas. Criticism from opposition leaders like Peter Obi is essential for accountability and governance improvement. Yet, the APC’s response reflects disdain for democratic norms,” Atiku added.
He urged the ruling party to clarify Morka’s ominous remark, “be ready for whatever comes his way,” calling it deeply troubling.
Atiku also condemned Morka’s characterization of Obi’s criticisms as akin to a lawless “Wild West” scenario.
He demanded a formal apology from the APC to Obi and Nigerians, stressing that such derogatory language is unacceptable in a democratic society.
The former Vice President reaffirmed the importance of constructive engagement in governance, urging the government to embrace opposition voices rather than suppress them.
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