Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has hit back at Salihu Lukman, accusing him of being a “cantankerous political rodomont” in response to Lukman’s recent criticisms of the ruling party.
Morka’s comments come as Lukman, former National Vice Chairman of the APC, has been vocal in his attacks against the current administration.
Morka describes Lukman’s recent behaviour as a desperate search for political relevance.
“Since leaving his position as National Vice Chairman, Lukman has been on a relentless quest for attention,” Morka said.
“His latest role as a critic of the APC is merely an attempt to stay relevant in a rapidly changing political landscape.”
Lukman has been accusing the APC of “ruining the country with economic policies and corruption.”
He has also called on opposition parties and Nigerians to vote out the APC in the 2027 elections.
However, Morka dismisses these claims as baseless and driven by personal grievances rather than substantive critique.
Morka argues that Lukman’s allegations lack evidence and are designed to serve his own interests rather than the public good.
“Lukman’s accusations against the APC are empty and outlandish,” he said. “It is clear that his criticisms are more about his personal agenda than any genuine concern for the country’s welfare.”
Lukman’s shifting political stance has also come under scrutiny.
At various times, he has presented himself as a reformist dedicated to addressing the problems of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and, at other times, shown faith in the PDP and other opposition parties.
Morka questions Lukman’s credibility and commitment to any political cause.
Morka criticizes Lukman for what he describes as opportunistic behavior throughout his political career.
“Lukman has always prioritized his own ego and interests over the institutions he has served,” he said.
“His latest call for opposition unity is just another calculated move to regain relevance and divert attention from the APC’s progress.”
According to Morka, Lukman’s past criticisms of opposition parties like the PDP and Labour Party (LP) were harsh and unrelenting.
Now, Lukman’s apparent support for these parties, despite their internal problems, is seen as a sign of his inconsistency and lack of genuine belief in their capabilities.
Morka points out that the opposition parties Lukman is now championing have struggled with their own internal issues.
“It is ludicrous to suggest that the PDP and LP, which have had their share of problems, are capable of providing effective leadership,” he said.
“Lukman’s support for these parties, despite their flaws, reflects his own blinding self-interest rather than a rational assessment of their capabilities.”
Lukman has been critical of the APC-led administration under President Bola Tinubu, accusing it of failing to address economic and corruption issues.
However, Morka argues that these criticisms ignore the significant reforms the APC administration is undertaking to address Nigeria’s long-standing challenges.
Morka defends the APC administration’s efforts to reform Nigeria’s economy and improve national security.
“President Tinubu’s administration is taking bold measures to tackle the country’s deep-rooted economic problems,” he said.
“While these reforms may lead to short-term hardships, they are necessary for long-term progress and sustainable development.”
Morka emphasizes that previous administrations avoided necessary reforms, leaving Nigeria’s economy in a state of stagnation.
“It would have been easier for President Tinubu to continue the status quo,” he said.
“But he has chosen to confront these challenges head-on, in line with his administration’s renewed hope agenda.”
In light of the criticisms from Lukman and other opposition figures, Morka urges Nigerians to remain focused on the progress being made under the APC administration.
“We encourage Nigerians to stay committed to supporting President Tinubu and his efforts to build a better future for the country,” he said.
Morka’s statement highlights the need for the public to ignore what he describes as the pettiness and disinformation coming from the opposition.
“The opposition’s criticisms are a distraction from the substantial progress being made,” he said.
“Nigerians should continue to support the APC’s efforts for a more vibrant and prosperous future.”
