A heated political drama has unfolded between Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and former presidential candidate Peter Obi. Morka has vehemently denied allegations that he threatened Obi’s life, describing the claims as “malicious lies” designed to manipulate public opinion.
The controversy began when Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, posted on his official X account (formerly Twitter) that Morka had issued veiled threats against him and his family during an interview on Arise TV’s THIS WEEK program. Obi alleged that Morka’s comments implied potential harm, following the former candidate’s critical New Year’s message targeting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Morka Fires Back: “No Threats, Just Criticism”
In response, Morka labeled Obi’s allegations as a deliberate distortion of his words. “Nothing in my statement constitutes or suggests a threat to Mr. Obi or anyone,” Morka said in a statement released shortly after Obi’s accusations went viral.
The APC spokesperson provided a verbatim transcript of his interview to counter Obi’s claims. According to Morka, his remarks were political criticisms aimed at Obi’s rhetoric, not personal threats.
During the televised interview, Morka had described Obi’s approach to political discourse as “irrational” and accused him of promoting “voodoo economics” while stoking public anger. Although Morka admitted to saying that Obi had “crossed the line” and would “get what is coming to him,” he clarified that his comments were strictly within the bounds of political critique.
“Obi’s interpretation of my remarks is not only false but also a dangerous ploy to incite public outrage and position himself as a victim,” Morka stated.
The Policy Debate: Accusations of Hypocrisy
Morka went further to accuse Obi of hypocrisy and inconsistency in his political stance. He pointed out that Obi had criticized the Tinubu administration for implementing policies such as removing fuel subsidies, unifying exchange rates, and promoting local production—reforms that Obi himself had promised during his presidential campaign.
“Obi’s constant flip-flops demonstrate a disturbing lack of principled commitment,” Morka said. “How can someone who championed these policies now condemn them for cheap political points?”
Morka also alleged that Obi’s supporters had weaponized social media to attack critics, often resorting to death threats and online harassment. “It is alarming that Mr. Obi has not condemned these actions,” Morka said. “His silence suggests tacit approval of this mob behavior.”
Obi’s Silence on Online Mobs
Morka accused Obi of enabling a “restless band of online mobs” who target anyone opposing his political views. “Mr. Obi seems to believe he is Nigeria’s sacred cow, beyond reproach and always right,” Morka added.
The APC spokesperson emphasized the need for principled opposition in Nigeria’s democracy. “Nigerians deserve opposition leaders who engage in fact-based critiques, not those who indulge in manipulative politics,” he said.
Legal Action Looming?
Morka hinted at possible legal action, citing reputational damage and threats to his family as consequences of Obi’s allegations. “By falsely accusing me of threatening his life, Mr. Obi has libeled me and incited his followers to issue threats against my family. This is unacceptable,” Morka said, demanding a public retraction from Obi.
The APC official added that Obi’s tactics of “deceit and manipulation” undermine the trust of the Nigerian people. “Accountability is a two-way street. I will defend my integrity with every available recourse,” Morka warned.
Contextual Background: Political Rancor in Nigeria
This latest confrontation adds to the growing list of political conflicts in Nigeria, where heated rhetoric and accusations often dominate public discourse. Obi, who ran as the Labour Party candidate in the 2023 presidential election, has frequently criticized the Tinubu administration for its economic and governance policies. His vocal stance has earned him both praise and criticism, particularly from the APC.
Morka’s defense comes at a time when political tensions remain high, with opposition leaders facing challenges in navigating their roles in a deeply polarized environment. Public figures like Obi are often scrutinized for their actions and statements, making political disputes a common feature of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Morka’s Final Word
Concluding his rebuttal, Morka urged Obi to take responsibility for his actions and statements. “The Nigerian people deserve leaders who value honesty and accountability. Mr. Obi’s behavior falls short of these expectations,” Morka declared.
As the war of words continues, Nigerians await Obi’s response to Morka’s demand for a retraction. This confrontation underscores the challenges of political leadership and opposition in a country where public trust remains fragile.
