The Labour Party (LP) has condemned remarks made by the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, which the party claims pose a serious “threat to life” against Peter Obi, its 2023 presidential candidate.
In a statement issued by Senator Nenadi Usman, Chairperson of the LP Caretaker Committee, the party described Morka’s comments during a January 5 national television interview as “offensive” and “incendiary.”
The LP argued that such remarks undermine democratic principles and called for an immediate apology and retraction.
She said, “It’s with great concern and a deep sense of responsibility that I, condemn the recent incendiary remarks made by Mr Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, during his appearance on national television on the 5th of January 2025.
“His statements not only pose a direct threat to the life, reputation and business interests of Mr Peter Obi but also constitute an affront to the principles of democracy, decency and responsible political engagement.
“Mr Peter Obi, a man of impeccable character, has devoted his life to the service of Nigeria and the pursuit of good governance. He has consistently demonstrated that competence, merit and respect for the rule of law should guide leadership. To attack him with baseless allegations and threats is an indication of the APC’s inability to engage constructively on the issues that matter to Nigerians.
“The APC must immediately issue a public apology to Mr Peter Obi and retract the offensive statements made by its National Publicity Secretary. Anything less would be a tacit endorsement of such reckless and dangerous behaviour.”
“Such inflammatory rhetoric has no place in our democracy. It undermines national unity, discourages productive political discourse and endangers lives. We remind Mr Felix Morka and the APC leadership that words have consequences. The Labour Party will hold them accountable for any harm that befalls Mr Peter Obi or his associates,” the statement added.
Usman said the opposition party would continue to stand with Obi as it wouldn’t be “cowed or distracted by threats or intimidation.”
“We urge security agencies to investigate this matter and ensure that those who use public platforms to incite violence or issue veiled threats are held to account. Political leaders must rise above pettiness and focus on addressing the pressing challenges facing our nation, including insecurity, unemployment, and economic instability.
“The Labour Party remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the values of transparency, justice and inclusion. We will not be cowed or distracted by threats or intimidation. Mr Peter Obi represents hope and progress for millions of Nigerians, and we will continue to stand by him in his pursuit of a better Nigeria.
“As leaders, we owe it to Nigerians to promote peace, unity, and responsible political dialogue. Let us not forget that the true measure of leadership lies in how we treat one another, even in the face of disagreement,” read the statement.
