Atiku Abubakar condemns APC’s remarks against Peter Obi

Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns over inflammatory remarks made by Felix Morka, Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), directed at Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.

Atiku described the comments as emblematic of a troubling shift towards authoritarian governance, with growing attacks on opposition figures and dissenting voices.

In a statement issued on January 7, Atiku criticized Morka’s claim that Obi had “crossed the line,” describing it as a veiled threat that undermines Nigeria’s democratic principles.

He warned that such language, laden with hostility, has no place in a free society that relies on civil discourse and constructive engagement.

“A true democracy thrives on the healthy exchange of ideas,” Atiku stated. “Opposition leaders like Peter Obi should be viewed as essential to promoting accountability and improving governance, not as enemies to be silenced.”

Atiku expressed deep concern over Morka’s ominous remark that Obi should “be ready for whatever comes his way,” demanding clarity from the APC on its implications.

He argued that such statements reflect an alarming disdain for dissent and threaten to stifle the democratic process.

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“It is imperative that the APC clarifies this disturbing insinuation and issues a formal apology to Peter Obi and Nigerians,” Atiku stated. “Disparaging and hostile rhetoric undermines the integrity of governance and sets a dangerous precedent.”

Atiku also decried the continued detention of Mahdi Shehu, a prominent critic of the administration, describing it as a blatant violation of fundamental rights. He criticized the APC-led government’s increasing tendency to vilify and suppress opposition figures, warning that this approach risks eroding Nigeria’s democratic foundations.

“If anyone has truly ‘crossed the line,’ it is this administration, which appears determined to crush dissent rather than engage constructively with it,” he said. “The detention of Mallam Shehu without clear justification underscores a worrying trend of authoritarianism.”

Atiku urged all Nigerians and stakeholders to advocate for the preservation of democratic values, emphasizing the need for the government to recalibrate its approach to opposition and dissent.

“It is the duty of a democratic government to listen to its critics, engage in meaningful dialogue, and provide space for alternative viewpoints,” he emphasized. “The current trajectory of vilifying and silencing opposition figures must end. Voices of dissent are not enemies of the state but vital components of a healthy democracy.”

Atiku concluded with an appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to restore respect for civil liberties, uphold democratic principles, and foster an environment where constructive criticism can thrive.