By Mike Odeh.
In a robust defense of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has lambasted the Tinubu administration for what he perceives as a drift towards authoritarianism. This criticism comes in the wake of comments made by Felix Morka, the Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), suggesting that Obi had “crossed the line” in his political activities.
Atiku, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party and a presidential contender in the 2023 elections, expressed his disapproval through a statement on the X platform. He highlighted that the rhetoric from the APC betrays a fundamental disdain for democratic principles and constructive dialogue.
“The choice of words, particularly the ominous phrase ‘crossed the line,’ is not just undemocratic but also alarming. It hints at an authoritarian mindset where dissenting voices are seen as threats to be silenced rather than contributors to governance,” Atiku remarked. He stressed the vital role critics play in a democracy, ensuring accountability and transparency, and warned that stifling these voices could erode public trust and weaken democratic institutions.
Atiku further criticized Morka’s portrayal of Obi’s advocacy for dialogue, which the APC spokesperson likened to instigating a “lawless Wild West scenario.” This kind of language, Atiku argued, is reckless and unbecoming of a party that claims to uphold democratic values. He underscored that opposition leaders like Peter Obi have the right to call for accountability without facing threats or ridicule.
The former Vice President also pointed to the case of Mahdi Shehu, a vocal critic of the current administration, who has been detained without clear justification. Atiku described Shehu’s situation as part of a broader pattern aimed at silencing dissenting voices. “The prolonged detention of Mahdi Shehu and others is a glaring example of the administration’s disregard for fundamental freedoms,” Atiku stated.
In his call for action, Atiku urged the APC to clarify Morka’s statement, particularly the veiled threat that Obi “must be ready for whatever comes his way.” He demanded an immediate explanation and an apology from the ruling party to Peter Obi and the Nigerian people, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and tolerant approach to handling dissent.
Civil society groups and other stakeholders have echoed Atiku’s concerns, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to embrace opposition voices as critical to the health of democracy. Atiku concluded by calling on all stakeholders to intervene and ensure the administration recalibrates its approach to dissent and opposition, warning against a slide into authoritarianism, which he insists has no place in Nigerian society.
The exchange of accusations between the APC and supporters of Obi has intensified following Morka’s remarks in an interview on Arise Television, where he accused the former Anambra governor of inciting unrest against the Tinubu administration. As tensions rise, Atiku’s defense of Obi underscores the ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s political landscape, where the balance between governance and opposition remains a contentious issue.
