Kehinde Fajobi
Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, over comments directed at Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
In a statement, Atiku described Morka’s remarks as a “disturbing emblem” of the current administration’s efforts to silence opposition voices.
He also expressed concern over the detention of government critic Mahdi Shehu and others, suggesting these actions signal a drift toward authoritarianism.
“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.”
He called Morka’s statement that Obi should “be ready for whatever comes his way” a “chilling threat” and demanded clarification from the APC.
Atiku also criticised Morka’s portrayal of Obi’s call for constructive engagement, likening it to a “Wild West” scenario.
He called this framing crude and unbecoming of a ruling party, urging the APC to apologise to Obi and Nigerians.
Turning to Mahdi Shehu’s detention, Atiku condemned the government for eroding fundamental freedoms.
“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,” he said.
The former Vice President urged Nigerians and the international community to demand an end to the stifling of dissent.
He warned that Nigeria’s democracy depends on safeguarding free speech and protecting opposition rights.
Atiku concluded by urging the Tinubu administration to respect democratic principles, calling for dialogue and constructive engagement with dissenting voices.