In a concerning turn of events, Felix Morka, the National Spokesperson for Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), made a statement that has sparked widespread alarm. His comment that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate, has “crossed the line so many times, and whatever he gets let him take it” is perceived as a direct threat to Obi’s life. This chilling statement underscores the urgent need for both national and international intervention to safeguard Obi’s safety and protect Nigeria’s democracy from escalating political violence.

This is not an isolated incident. The statement came after Obi, in his New Year message, delivered a scathing critique of President Bola Tinubu’s government. In his speech, Obi highlighted the severe economic pain, mass hunger, insecurity, lack of due process, and systemic oppression plaguing Nigeria under the current administration. He vowed to continue speaking the truth and holding the government accountable, even stating that he is ready to die for the cause of truth and justice. In what appears to be a strategic move, Obi’s bold stance seems to have set a trap for the APC, with Morka’s threatening remarks falling right into it.

The Threat to Democracy: Morka’s Incendiary Statement

Morka’s statement on Arise TV goes beyond political rhetoric and crosses into dangerous territory. It sends a message that dissent is punishable by violence, a clear threat to the core democratic values of free speech and political opposition. His remarks insinuate that Obi, for speaking out against government failures, deserves harm—a dangerous precedent in any democratic society.

Obi’s New Year message resonated with millions of Nigerians who are enduring harsh economic realities, rising insecurity, and increasing government oppression. His willingness to stand as a voice for the people, even at the risk of his life, demonstrates his unwavering commitment to truth and democratic principles. However, the response from the APC spokesperson exposes the intolerance of the ruling party toward dissenting voices.

The Nigerian government must take immediate action to investigate Morka’s comments and ensure Obi’s safety. Failure to do so would send a signal that threats against opposition figures are acceptable, further eroding Nigeria’s fragile democracy.

The Role of the Nigerian Government: Protecting Democratic Integrity

The Tinubu administration must demonstrate its commitment to democracy by taking decisive steps to protect Peter Obi and hold Morka accountable for his words. Providing round-the-clock security for Obi is a necessity, not a luxury. Additionally, the Nigerian Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) must investigate Morka’s statement under the Criminal Code or Cybercrime Act. His remarks must not be dismissed as political banter but treated as a serious incitement to violence.

Furthermore, the APC must suspend Morka from his role as National Spokesperson. The party needs to send a clear message that it does not condone threats or intimidation. Failing to do so would indicate that the ruling party endorses a culture of fear and repression, undermining democratic dialogue and civil discourse.

International Intervention: A Global Responsibility

The international community must not turn a blind eye to the escalating threats against Peter Obi and the broader attacks on Nigeria’s democracy. Key actors, including ECOWAS, the United Nations, the European Union, and countries like the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany, have a responsibility to intervene.

Condemning Morka’s threats publicly and urging Nigerian authorities to ensure Obi’s safety will reinforce the global commitment to democratic norms and human rights. Advocacy groups and human rights organizations must also step in to keep the situation in the global spotlight and ensure that no harm comes to Obi.

Peter Obi’s willingness to call out government failures at great personal risk must be met with equal resolve from the global community to protect him. Silence would embolden those who seek to use threats and violence to stifle opposition voices.

ECOWAS: A Regional Responsibility

As the leading regional body in West Africa, ECOWAS must take an active stance in this situation. Issuing a formal statement condemning the threats against Obi and offering mediation between political factions would reinforce its role in maintaining peace and stability in the region. Allowing threats and intimidation against political figures in one member state could set a dangerous precedent for instability across the region.

The Role of NGOs and Human Rights Organizations

NGOs and human rights organizations must amplify the call for justice. Media campaigns, public statements, and advocacy efforts can apply pressure on Nigerian authorities to take necessary actions to protect Obi. These organizations must demand that legal actions be taken against Morka and any other individuals making similar threats.

By advocating for the protection of opposition leaders and democratic institutions, NGOs help foster a culture of political dialogue and tolerance, rather than one of threats and intimidation.

Peter Obi’s Safety: A Litmus Test for Nigeria’s Democracy

The threats against Peter Obi are more than just a personal attack; they represent a critical juncture for Nigeria’s democracy. The Tinubu administration’s response to these threats will be a litmus test of its commitment to protecting democratic values and human rights.

Providing security for Obi, investigating the threats, and holding Morka accountable are essential steps to demonstrate that Nigeria values democratic principles. Failure to take these actions will signal that the country condones political violence and intimidation, damaging its democratic credentials on the global stage.

Peter Obi’s life is at risk because he dared to speak the truth about the failures of the Tinubu administration. Morka’s threat on Arise TV highlights the dangerous undercurrent of repression within Nigerian politics.

This moment requires immediate action from Nigerian authorities, regional bodies like ECOWAS, and the global community. The protection of Obi’s life is more than a security issue—it is a statement about Nigeria’s commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads. The government’s response to Morka’s incendiary statement will determine whether it upholds democratic principles or allows political intimidation and impunity to deepen. It has now been more than 24 hours since Peter Obi, in his own words, raised alarm over threats to his life, his family, and his close associates: “My New Year message has now led to threats against my life, my family, and those around me.” By now, the Inspector General of Police, the Director of the DSS (Department of State Services), and the Director of the NIA (National Intelligence Agency) should have urgently summoned Felix Morka for a legal interrogation to clarify his threatening statements. 

Obi, as a national opposition leader and a recognized global figure, represents a powerful symbol of democratic resistance in Nigeria. Ensuring his safety is not just a national obligation but a global priority. At this point, Felix Morka, who has continued making media appearances despite his incendiary remarks, should be temporarily suspended from his role as the ruling party’s spokesperson. Allowing him to continue in this capacity without consequence only fuels the perception that such threats are acceptable. He should be barred from public statements in his official position until authorities have conducted a thorough investigation and clarified the legal implications of his comments.

It is crucial to emphasize that this writer holds no personal or political ties to any of the individuals involved. The focus is solely on the advancement and preservation of democratic principles across Africa. Safeguarding human rights, promoting political accountability, and protecting opposition figures from threats and intimidation are essential components of a functioning democracy.

Failure to address this issue decisively would send a dangerous message both within Nigeria and to the international community: that threats against political opponents are tolerated. Such inaction risks deepening instability and further eroding trust in Nigeria’s institutions. The government must act swiftly to prevent any escalation that could have long-term consequences. Protecting political dissent and upholding democratic integrity are essential steps toward securing the nation’s future. The time to act is now.