Serious controversy, name-calling and allegations of threats to life have greeted the New Year message of former presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi.
Just like every other prominent personalities in the country, Obi had delivered a media briefing in Abuja to convey his New Year message to his supporters and Nigerians at large.
During the media engagement titled “Nigeria Needs Selfless and Exemplary Leadership,” the former LP presidential candidate, in his characteristic manner, criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu for failing to address worsening economic and security challenges in the country.
He faulted Tinubu for driving citizens into severe hardship, thus calling for vigorous and positive actions that would alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
However, his message was condemned by the ruling All Progressives Congress and other handlers of President Tinubu.
The APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, flayed the former governor of Anambra State and accused him of being hypocritical and attempting to incite public outrage against the government.
Morka, in a statement, argued that Obi’s remarks were misleading and aimed at scoring cheap political points.
He referred to the eight years of Obi as governor of Anambra State, claiming that the LP chieftain never recorded any significant achievements.
Nonetheless, Obi stood by his New Year message, insisting that it was made in good faith and calling for constructive feedback.
He maintained that many Nigerians were losing hope, wondering why APC and its other apologists were attacking him for stating the obvious.
Denying allegations of inciting Nigerians with his 2025 message, Obi insisted that it was intended to address pressing national issues.
Making known the allegation that some were threatening his life and those of his family members, Oni, on Monday through his X page, explained that he had received threats to his life and family following the message and described the accusations as part of a broader attempt to silence critical voices in the country.
“Have I really crossed the line? 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 warned that I will face the consequences,” Obi wrote.
He further said, “If I have truly crossed the line, I invite anyone to point it out, as I remain committed to upholding decorum. However, I will not be silenced in my resolve to speak truthfully, especially as our nation continues to drift toward undemocratic practices.”
