Atiku Abubakar demands APC apology to Peter Obi for inflammatory remarks, as tensions rise over alleged threats against the opposition leader.

[dropcap]F[/dropcap]ormer Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the All Progressives Congress (APC) to issue a formal apology to Peter Obi and the Nigerian populace over what he described as “inflammatory and disgraceful language” used by APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, during a recent interview.

Atiku, a former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made his position clear in a tweet on his official X account.

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His demand follows Morka’s comments during a Sunday interview on Arise Television, where he accused Obi of attempting to incite Nigerians against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Morka stated that Obi “deserved to get whatever came his way” due to his persistent criticisms.

The remarks have sparked widespread reactions, with many of Obi’s supporters warning against any harm coming to the former Anambra governor.

Atiku described Morka’s comments as emblematic of a disturbing trend within the ruling administration, suggesting an authoritarian approach towards dissenting voices.

“Such reckless and derogatory expressions cannot be tolerated,” Atiku stated. “It is incumbent upon the APC to issue a formal apology to Obi and the Nigerian people.

A democratic government must welcome criticism, engage in dialogue, and respect the rights of opposition figures.”

The Labour Party (LP) has also joined the debate, giving President Tinubu a seven-day ultimatum to reprimand Morka.

Marcel Ngogbehei, LP’s Director-General of Mobilisation and Integration, called the remarks a direct threat to democracy, urging the president to distance himself from such rhetoric.

“This goes beyond political rivalry,” Ngogbehei said. “It poses a direct threat to our democracy, peace, and unity. We urge the president to act decisively in this matter.”

In response, Morka denied making any threats against Obi, accusing the former governor’s supporters of online bullying and issuing death threats against him.

“Obi leads a restless band of online mob who attack and intimidate anyone critical of him. There is no evidence of any threat in my statements,” Morka clarified in a press release.

The APC National Working Committee has backed Morka, with member Tolu Bankole stating, “Morka was merely performing his duties as a spokesperson. Obi should focus on constructive opposition rather than playing the victim.”

Despite these exchanges, Obi’s media aide, Umar Ibrahim, asserted that Obi remains undeterred. “Obi will continue to hold the government accountable and advocate for transparency, regardless of threats or intimidation,” Ibrahim said.

As tensions rise, observers emphasise the importance of fostering civil political discourse to uphold Nigeria’s democratic principles.