Following the threat over his life and family regarding his new year message, Peter Obi, the 2023 Presidential Contender for the Labour Party, has taken to his official X handle to call that If he has truly crossed the line, he should be pointed out to.
Obi is one amongst the few Nigerians who has continuously expressed their views concerning the economy and governance. In his resent post, he asked if he has truly crossed the line. See his post.
Have I really crossed the line?
“I ask the question because 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.
“I find it necessary to share this message again and urge everyone who has not seen it to watch:
youtube.com/watch?v=waGknJ…
“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.
“We are increasingly transforming into an authoritarian and repressive regime, where freedom of expression is being systematically suppressed.
“May God help us create a better and freer society for the sake of our children”.
It will be recalled that in his new year press conference the former Anambra State Governor has expressed displeasure over the political, economic and security, healthcare situation in the country, despite the administration’s contrary positions and claims that it has improved different spheres of human endeavour.
In his thoughts, Obi pointed that the national indices tell a disconcerting story, stressing that Nigeria remains one of the poverty capitals of the world.
Owing to the fact that he is not part of the present administration, one may conclude that Obi’s statement is one trying dent the present administration, which has raised concerns from the administration’s loyalist.
However, a critical look should be taken into it. Being a country that practice freedom of Expression, should Obi’s statement bring threat to him? Some have come to his defense to criticize the present administration for attacking Obi over his new year message.
The Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, Atiku Abubakar backed Obi saying opposition leaders play a vital role in fostering accountability and improving governance. He said for true democracy to thrive, there will be healthy exchange of ideas.
He criticized the the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, for their inflammatory remarks against Obi. He added that for the APC spokesperson, to say Obi has ‘crossed the line,’ shows that there is disdain for democratic principles.
On his part, a human rights lawyer and activist, Comrade Deji Adeyanju, has also expressed displeasure over threat to the life of Obi. He said, “Criticizing and holding the government accountable cannot be a crime but must be commended as the greatest sign of patriotism.”
