The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has called on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to clarify how his New Year message on the nation’s state of affairs under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu crossed any boundaries, resulting in threats to his life and that of his family.

In his New Year message, Obi criticized the economic policies of the Tinubu administration, arguing that Nigeria’s situation had worsened despite government claims of progress. He described the country as still being one of the “poverty capitals of the world” and urged President Tinubu to stop his frequent overseas trips, including for medical examinations, and instead seek care within Nigeria.

“Mr. President, out of the approximately 580 days you have been in office, it is reported that you have spent over 30%, or around 180 days, on more than 30 publicly recorded overseas trips,” Obi said in the message.

Reacting to statements by APC spokesperson Felix Morka, Obi reshared the video of his New Year message on social media, asking Nigerians to point out where he “crossed the line.”

“Have I really crossed the line? I ask 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 accused me of ‘crossing the line’ and warned that I will face the consequences,” Obi stated.

Obi reiterated his commitment to speaking truthfully and maintaining decorum, even as he decried what he described as an increasingly repressive environment under the current government. “We are transforming into an authoritarian and repressive regime, where freedom of expression is being systematically suppressed,” he said 
Felix Morka, speaking during an interview on Arise Television, accused Obi of going too far with his criticisms of Tinubu’s government and the APC.

“Peter Obi is really crossing the line. The campaigns are over; he needs to relax and allow his lawyers to handle his case at the tribunal. Accusing the APC of attacking his personal life is ridiculous. Obi has been way too sanctimonious for someone who volunteered to venture into politics and run for the presidency,” Morka said.

Despite the backlash, Obi maintained his stance, stating that his observations were aimed at fostering better governance and holding the government accountable. “If I have truly crossed the line, I invite anyone to point it out,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor vowed not to be silenced, emphasizing that open dialogue and freedom of speech are critical to Nigeria’s democracy.