'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has dismissed as "sheer falsehood" allegations made by Mr. Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, regarding threats to his life.
In a statement personally signed by Dr. Ganduje, the APC Chairman described Mr. Obi’s claims, shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, as misleading, malicious, and a ploy for emotional blackmail. Ganduje expressed concern that such allegations, if left unaddressed, could undermine public trust and incite unwarranted reactions.
The controversy stems from remarks made by the APC National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Felix Morka, during an interview on Arise TV’s ThisDay Live on January 4, 2025. Mr. Obi alleged that these comments constituted a threat to his life and the safety of his family.
Ganduje, however, refuted this interpretation, asserting that Morka’s statements were a response to criticism of the Tinubu administration by opposition actors, including Obi. The APC Chairman clarified that Morka’s comments referenced "prophets of doom" and "voodoo economics" but did not, at any point, threaten Mr. Obi or his family.
Ganduje accused Mr. Obi of misrepresenting Morka’s remarks to garner public sympathy and incite his supporters.
“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,” Ganduje stated.
He emphasized that public figures, including Mr. Obi, have a responsibility to share accurate information, warning that the spread of falsehoods could erode trust and disrupt democratic discourse.
Ganduje reiterated the APC’s commitment to democratic principles, including free speech, which he noted is protected under Nigeria’s Constitution. He, however, cautioned against the misuse of this right to propagate false narratives.
“Morka was simply fulfilling his role as National Publicity Secretary by countering baseless claims from the opposition. Does Mr. Obi expect the APC to fold its arms and allow falsehoods against the Tinubu-led government to go unchecked?” Ganduje queried.
The APC Chairman stressed that criticism and rebuttal are essential components of a thriving democracy and urged opposition actors, including Mr. Obi, to accept constructive criticism without resorting to misinformation.
Ganduje reaffirmed the party’s support for Morka’s statements, emphasizing that they were rooted in defending the federal government and setting the record straight. He maintained that the APC would continue to challenge disinformation and hold opposition figures accountable for their actions.
The former Kano state governor called on Mr. Obi to desist from making unfounded allegations and instead focus on promoting constructive dialogue in Nigeria’s political landscape. He assured Nigerians that the APC remains committed to upholding democratic values while addressing opposition criticisms with facts.
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