Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, has criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, over what he describes as inflammatory remarks directed at Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the same election.
Atiku described Morka’s comments as a “disturbing emblem” of the current administration’s strategy to stifle opposition voices.
He also expressed concern over the prolonged detention of Mahdi Shehu, a prominent government critic, and others, suggesting these actions indicate a shift toward authoritarian governance.
“The choice of words used by the APC spokesperson, particularly the ominous suggestion that Obi has ‘crossed the line,’ reveals an alarming disdain for democratic principles,” Atiku said.
“Such language, rooted in hostility, has no place in a free society where civil discourse and engagement should reign supreme.”
Atiku emphasized the vital role of opposition leaders in fostering accountability and improving governance, arguing that a true democracy thrives on a healthy exchange of ideas.
He expressed alarm over Morka’s statement that Obi should “be ready for whatever comes his way,” calling on the APC to clarify this “chilling threat.”
The former Vice President also condemned the APC spokesperson’s framing of Obi’s calls for constructive engagement, likening them to a lawless “Wild West” scenario.
Atiku described this language as crude and unbecoming of a ruling party, urging the APC to issue a formal apology to Obi and the Nigerian public.
In addition to the remarks against Obi, Atiku highlighted the case of Mahdi Shehu, who remains in detention without clear justification.
He argued that the Tinubu administration’s actions are eroding fundamental freedoms and setting a dangerous precedent.
“If there is anyone who has truly ‘crossed the line,’ it is the Tinubu administration, whose continuous vilification of opposition figures as mere irritants to be crushed is a dangerous precedent,” Atiku said.
The PDP candidate called on Nigerians and the international community to demand an end to what he described as “the stifling of dissenting voices”, warning that the survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the protection of free speech and opposition rights.
Atiku concluded by urging President Tinubu’s administration to recalibrate its approach to dissent, emphasizing the need for dialogue, engagement, and respect for democratic principles.
