Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has dismissed allegations that his comments during a televised interview were a veiled threat to the life of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election.
Morka clarified that his statement had been misinterpreted and insisted it did not imply any harm to Obi or his family.
The issue began after Peter Obi alleged that Morka’s comments on Arise TV following his New Year message had triggered a wave of threats against him and his family. Morka had remarked that Obi had “crossed the line so many times” and that “whatever he has coming to him, he should manage it.”
According to Obi, this statement led to numerous threatening messages, including explicit threats to his life and those of his family members. The former Anambra State governor claimed these threats were a direct consequence of Morka’s televised remarks.
Appearing on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on January 8, 2025, Morka categorically denied that his comments posed any threat to Obi or his family. He explained that his statement was a direct response to a question about Obi being labeled a “voodoo economist” and a “prophet of doom.”
Morka clarified: “If Peter Obi was called a prophet of doom or a voodoo economist, he has it coming because he has crossed several lines of truth. My comment was purely in the context of his consistent pattern of spreading falsehoods, not a threat to his life or safety.”
Morka also challenged Obi to provide concrete evidence of the alleged threats. He argued that as a prominent political figure, Obi should be able to substantiate his claims with proof.
“He who alleges must prove. If Peter Obi claims that anyone has threatened him, he must go beyond making vague accusations. For someone in his standing, it is important to produce evidence of those who made these threats. This matter should not be debated in a television studio but should be taken to law enforcement agencies for proper investigation and action,” Morka stated.
The APC spokesperson reiterated that his comments were centered on the criticism of Obi’s perceived misrepresentation of facts and not on any physical harm. “My statement simply reflected that Peter Obi deserved the labels he has been given because of his repeated crossing of truth lines. It was never about threatening his life or suggesting harm in any way,” he emphasized.
Morka concluded by urging political leaders to focus on constructive discourse rather than escalating tensions through baseless allegations. He reaffirmed his commitment to engaging in meaningful debates and expressed confidence in law enforcement agencies to address any genuine security concerns.
The incident highlights the volatile nature of political discourse in Nigeria, with words often being misinterpreted and fueling heightened tensions. Both parties have called for evidence and further investigation to ensure accountability in this sensitive matter.
