The Labour Party has voiced its strong disapproval of what it deems as threats to democracy and freedom of expression in Nigeria, following alleged comments directed at its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Marcel Ngogbehei, the Director General of the Labour Party Directorate of Mobilization and Integration, has called on President Bola Tinubu to step in and publicly reprimand Felix Morka, the spokesperson for the All Progressives Congress (APC), for recent remarks that have been perceived as a threat to Obi.
Ngogbehei emphasized that such a public intervention is crucial to reaffirm the President’s commitment to democratic values, ensuring peace, stability, and upholding international standards of democracy.
He stated that Morka’s recent comments about Obi had crossed the line from political rivalry to undermining free speech, constructive criticism, and political pluralism, all of which are vital elements of Nigeria’s democratic system.
In an open letter to President Tinubu, Ngogbehei expressed deep concern over what he called Morka’s ‘incendiary remarks.’
He warned that such rhetoric directed at Obi could signal a dangerous shift towards stifling opposition voices.
Ngogbehei wrote, “I respectfully write to you in my role as the Director General of the Labour Party Directorate of Mobilization and Integration. The Labour Party, as the foremost opposition party in Nigeria, is deeply concerned by the recent reckless and threatening statements made by Mr. Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“These remarks, targeting H.E. Peter Obi, a well-respected global figure and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, go beyond the realm of political rivalry. They pose a serious threat to our democracy, peace, and unity.
“Your Excellency, as a long-time leader in the opposition, you and the APC benefitted from the freedoms and protections under Nigeria’s democratic system, particularly during the tenure of former President Goodluck Jonathan, which enabled you to challenge the existing order and ultimately rise to power.
“We now call on you, as the President and leader of the APC, to publicly reprimand Mr. Felix Morka for his inflammatory statements within the next seven days.
“Should you choose not to take decisive action by openly denouncing Morka’s statements, it would send a disconcerting message to Nigerians and the global community, implying that your administration is either complicit in or indifferent to threats against democracy and political dissent.
“It is crucial that your administration dissociates itself from any rhetoric or actions that undermine free speech, suppress opposition voices, or jeopardize the safety of political leaders. Leadership, Your Excellency, requires the courage to defend democracy not merely in words but through concrete actions.
“I trust in your judgment and leadership to act in the best interests of our nation and to ensure that our democracy remains strong, inclusive, and resilient.”