Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has alleged that he is facing threats to his life after criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration in his New Year message.
Obi’s claim follows comments made by Felix Morka, the national spokesperson for the All-Progressives Congress (APC), who reportedly said, “Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times and has it coming to him whatever he gets.”
In his New Year address, Obi highlighted the deteriorating political, economic, and security conditions in Nigeria, claiming the government’s assurances of improvement were far from reality. He noted the growing challenges facing the nation, stating that Nigeria’s situation had worsened over the past 18 months under the current administration.
Obi pointed out that Nigeria remains one of the world’s poorest countries, with over 100 million people living in extreme poverty. He also remarked that Nigeria’s economy had sharply declined, moving from the largest economy in Africa in 2014 to its current position, with a GDP now below 50% of what it was a decade ago.
Reacting to Morka’s statement, Obi asked if he had truly “crossed the line,” considering the threats against his life and the safety of his family and associates. In a post on his X handle, he challenged anyone who believes he had overstepped to clarify where he had done so, reaffirming his commitment to maintaining respect while speaking the truth.
Obi stressed that he would not be silenced in his pursuit of truth, particularly as he believes the country is drifting toward undemocratic practices. He expressed concerns about the increasing authoritarian and repressive nature of the current regime, with freedom of expression being systematically suppressed.
He concluded his post by calling for a better and freer society for future generations.
Have I really crossed the line?
I ask the question because my New Year message has now led to threats against my life, my family, and those around me. While I have received all sorts of messages, one Mr. Felix Morka has gone further to accuse me of "crossing the line" and has…— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) January 6, 2025
