From Hope to Fear: How Peter Obi’s New Year Message Resulted in Life Threats Against Him and His Loved Ones
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 elections, has reported receiving threats to his life and family following his New Year message, which criticized the current administration’s handling of economic and security issues.
In his New Year address titled “Nigeria Needs Selfless and Exemplary Leadership,” delivered during a press conference in Abuja, Obi highlighted the nation’s worsening economic and security challenges. He called for “vigorous, positive actions” to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians, expressing concern that many citizens were losing hope.
Following this address, Obi disclosed via social media that he has received various threatening messages targeting him and his family. He specifically mentioned Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who accused Obi of “crossing the line” with his criticisms and warned of potential consequences.
In response, Obi questioned whether his statements had indeed overstepped any boundaries, reaffirming his commitment to speaking truthfully about national issues. He stated, “We are increasingly transforming into an authoritarian and repressive regime, where freedom of expression is being systematically suppressed.”
The situation has sparked discussions about freedom of expression in Nigeria, with concerns that dissenting voices are being targeted to suppress legitimate criticism of the government.