Politics
NADECO USA unequivocally condemns the anti-democratic, appalling, and dangerous statement made by Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, against Mr. Peter Obi, the Labor Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election and a prominent opposition leader in Nigeria.
Morka’s inflammatory remarks—”Peter Obi Has Crossed the Line So Many Times and Has It Coming to Him Whatever He Gets”— are nothing short of a calculated and menacing call to incite harm and intimidation against Obi. Such reckless and unguarded words betray a deliberate attempt to stifle dissent and intimidate one of the leading voices of democratic reform in Nigeria.
Moreover, Morka’s baseless assertion that Obi left no legacy after his eight-year tenure as governor of Anambra State is a blatant falsehood designed to smear his reputation. Obi’s achievements in governance, fiscal responsibility, and infrastructure development are well-documented and widely recognized both nationally and internationally.
As a pro-democracy organization, NADECO USA stands firm in its commitment to the protection of democratic principles and the rights of
all individuals, irrespective of their political affiliations. Threats, intimidation, and divisive rhetoric have no place in a civil society. These actions from APC leaders suggest a deliberate strategy to undermine opposition voices and pave the way for further authoritarian measures ahead of the 2027 elections.
The APC, under the leadership of Mr. Tinubu, is escalating a pattern of
repressive behavior aimed at silencing critics of its disastrous
administration. This is not merely a political maneuver; it is a direct
attack on the fundamental values of democracy, accountability, and
freedom of expression.
NADECO USA firmly supports Peter Obi, who has consistently
championed democracy, transparency, and good governance. Despite
relentless attacks, Mr. Obi has shown commendable restraint by urging
his supporters to avoid violence and adhere to the rule of law. It is,
therefore, ludicrous and hypocritical for the APC to accuse him of
crossing undefined “lines.” What “lines” has he crossed other than
exposing the administration’s failures?
“We call on all Nigerians to categorically reject these divisive, threatening
tactics and to uphold the ideals of democracy, tolerance, and mutual
respect. The deliberate targeting of political opponents is a grave threat
to the stability and progress of Nigeria.
“NADECO USA warns that these remarks could signal an ominous test of
the Nigerian people’s resolve by the APC. As such, we urge citizens to
brace themselves for potential challenges and remain steadfast in
resisting any attempts to derail democratic progress. A few weeks, ago it
was the arrest of Dele Farotimi, and now this. Nigerians should
expect more in the coming months and years leading up to the 2027
presidential election.
“We demand that the APC and its representatives immediately cease
their incendiary rhetoric and focus on fostering a constructive dialogue
that addresses the genuine needs and aspirations of Nigerians. NADECO
will not sit idly by while threats and coercion are used to suppress political opposition and intimidate those advocating for change,” the statement signed by Lloyd F. Ukwu, President /CEO of NADECO USA, added,
10th January, 2025.
C.E.
Tags: NADECO
