Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has stated that he and some of his family members have received threats following his New Year message on January 1, 2025.
Obi shared this in a post on his X handle on the evening of January 6, expressing confusion over what in his message could have led to such threats against him and his loved ones.
“Have I truly crossed the line?” Obi asked, questioning what part of his New Year message would provoke such reactions. “My New Year message has now led to threats against my life, my family, and those around me. While I’ve received various messages, one Mr. Felix Morka has gone further to accuse me of ‘crossing the line’ and warned of consequences.”
Obi continued, saying, “If I have indeed crossed the line, I invite anyone to point it out, as I remain committed to upholding respect and decorum. However, I will not be silenced in my commitment to speak truthfully, especially as our country drifts towards undemocratic practices.”
He emphasized his belief that Nigeria is increasingly transforming into an authoritarian and repressive regime, with the systematic suppression of freedom of expression.
“May God help us build a better and freer society for the sake of our children,” Obi concluded.
In his New Year message, titled “Nigeria Needs Selfless And Exemplary Leadership,” the former Anambra State governor called for “vigorous, positive actions” by the government to bring relief to Nigerians, many of whom he said were losing hope. His message addressed the country’s worsening economic and social conditions, including high poverty rates, economic decline, insecurity, food shortages, and rising hunger.
He criticized the government for allowing the situation to worsen, noting that Nigeria now ranks among the least peaceful countries globally, with more than 100 million people living in extreme poverty. He also highlighted food insecurity as a national crisis, pointing out that even middle-income earners are struggling to afford basic food items.
