The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, has accused 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi of libel and inciting his followers to issue death threats against APC spokesman Felix Morka.
Ganduje accused Obi of lying by claiming that Morka threatened him and his family in a recent interview.
Obi had alleged that Morka threatened his life following his New Year’s Day criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He asked if he had “really crossed the line” after facing alleged threats to his life, family, and associates from Morka.
Obi’s allegation followed a statement attributed to Morka in an interview on Sunday, where he said, “Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times, and he has what’s coming to him. Whatever he gets, he should manage it.”
In response, Morka asserted that Obi had quoted him out of context, emphasising that he never threatened Obi’s life calling on the former Anambra State governor to set the record straight.
In a statement he personally signed, the APC Chairman stated that Obi’s claims were sheer mischief and outright falsehood, which would have been ignored if not for the need to refute such a baseless narrative.
According to Ganduje: “By falsely claiming that Morka threatened his life, Mr Obi has libeled Morka in the extreme and incited his online supporters to issue death threats against Morka and his family.”
He emphasised that, as a public figure, Obi had a responsibility to provide accurate and truthful information, adding that spreading falsehood undermines public trust.
The APC National Chairman pointed out that Morka was simply carrying out his duties as the National Publicity Secretary of the party, holding opposition actors accountable for their statements, as is expected in a democratic setting.
He added: “Morka’s comments during the interview were strictly in response to a question referencing ‘prophets of doom’ and ‘voodoo economics.’ Nothing in his statement constituted or suggested a threat to Obi or anyone else.”
Ganduje further emphasised the importance of free speech, a “right protected by Nigeria’s Constitution,” which applies equally to all Nigerians, including members of the ruling party.
He called on Obi to refrain from misinformation and to accept criticism as part of the democratic process.
“Does Mr. Obi expect the APC to fold its arms and allow the opposition to propagate falsehoods without any response?” Ganduje queried.
He warned that the APC would continue to counter baseless allegations with facts concerning the Tinubu-led government.
Ganduje reiterated the party’s commitment to upholding democratic principles while holding opposition actors accountable when necessary.
However, Ganduje described Obi’s claims as unfortunate and misleading.
