Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential flagbearer in the 2023 election, has claimed that his life is under duress following his New Year critique of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The allegation emerges in the aftermath of remarks attributed to Felix Morka, the All Progressives Congress (APC) national spokesperson, during a recent interview. Obi contends that his remarks have incited threats against him and those close to him.
In the purported interview, Morka allegedly stated, “Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times and has it coming to him whatever he gets.” Obi, evidently perturbed by this statement, raised concerns about the implications of such rhetoric. The gravity of this sentiment has seemingly compounded the backlash surrounding his outspoken criticism of the current regime.
During a New Year press briefing, Obi painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s political, economic, and security landscapes. The former governor of Anambra State expressed dismay over the nation’s deteriorating trajectory, describing the prevailing indices as disheartening. He lamented that, contrary to government claims of progress, the country’s challenges have become more pronounced.
“Our nation’s afflictions are blatantly deepening, and the collective well-being of our country is dwindling,” Obi asserted. “Nigeria, once the giant of Africa, now languishes among the poverty capitals of the world, with over 100 million citizens entrenched in severe destitution. Furthermore, over 150 million endure multidimensional poverty, a testament to our worsening reality under this administration.”
Obi elaborated on Nigeria’s economic decline, pointing out that the nation’s GDP had plunged from $574 billion in 2014 to less than $200 billion presently. Per capita income, which once stood at $3,500, has now dwindled to barely $1,000, signaling a monumental regression in economic strength. “Our economic metrics narrate a distressing tale,” he concluded, emphasizing the urgency of national reform.
Reacting to Morka’s comments in a post on his X handle, Obi questioned whether his remarks genuinely crossed any boundary. He revealed receiving numerous threats targeting his life, family, and associates. He demanded clarification, challenging his critics to specify where his statements transgressed decorum. Nonetheless, he vowed to persist in voicing the truth, particularly as the country veers toward what he perceives as oppressive governance.
In his post, Obi declared, “If I have truly overstepped, I invite anyone to highlight it. However, I remain resolute in maintaining civility while addressing our decline into autocracy. Freedom of speech is being eroded, and we risk becoming a repressive state. My conscience will not permit silence in the face of such peril. May God guide us toward a freer and more equitable society for the future of our children.
