Death Threats Allegedly Linked to Obi’s Accusations
Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has reported receiving over 400 threats to his life, including 200 explicit death threats, following comments about Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi. According to Morka, these threats escalated after Obi accused him of issuing a veiled threat during an interview on Arise Television.
Morka revealed that the messages contained graphic details, including threats to harm him and his family. “These are not vague insinuations but explicit threats of violence, including plans to shoot and behead me,” Morka said during a follow-up appearance on Arise News. He added that these threats would be formally reported to law enforcement.
Morka Denies Threatening Obi
In his defense, Morka dismissed Obi’s allegations as baseless and insisted that his initial remarks were misinterpreted. During the Sunday interview, Morka had stated, “…Mr. Obi has crossed the line so many times. And I think at this point, he has coming to him. Whatever he gets he should manage it”. This statement, Obi claimed, amounted to a veiled threat to his life.
Morka, however, maintained that his comments were taken out of context. “I categorically deny making any threats to Peter Obi. My words were aimed at addressing the tone of his political rhetoric, not issuing a personal threat,” he clarified.
Labour Party and Atiku Respond to Morka’s Remarks
The Labour Party condemned Morka’s comments and issued a seven-day ultimatum for President Bola Tinubu to reprimand the APC spokesman. Marcel Ngogbehei, Director-General of the Labour Party Directorate of Mobilisation and Integration, described the remarks as part of a targeted campaign against Obi.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a key figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), also weighed in, describing Morka’s words as inflammatory. “Such language is divisive and unacceptable in a democracy,” Atiku said. Both opposition parties demanded an apology from Morka and the APC for what they termed dangerous rhetoric.
Morka Vows Legal Action Against Threats
Morka emphasized that he would cooperate fully with law enforcement to address the threats. He stated that the documented messages, which described detailed plans for physical harm, would be handed over to authorities. “Some of the threats outline plans to ambush me, harm my family, and even inflict gruesome violence. These are serious matters requiring immediate legal action,” he said.
The APC spokesman also called on political leaders to foster civility in public discourse. “Disagreements should not result in threats of violence. We must uphold the principles of democracy and mutual respect,” Morka urged.
Political Tensions Continue to Rise
The incident highlights escalating tensions between Nigeria’s major political parties following the contentious 2023 presidential election. Political analysts have expressed concern over the divisive rhetoric and its potential to incite unrest.
As both APC and LP supporters continue to clash over the allegations, calls for de-escalation and constructive dialogue grow louder. Observers stress that resolving political differences peacefully is crucial for Nigeria’s democratic stability.
A Call for Responsible Political Dialogue
Morka’s case underscores the importance of fostering a climate of respect and understanding in Nigerian politics. Stakeholders from all sides are urged to prioritize unity and accountability in their public statements. As investigations into the threats continue, political leaders must set an example by promoting discourse that are carful, mature and responsible.
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