“APC Afraid of Peter Obi’s Rising Influence Ahead of 2027” – Labour Party Stakeholders
A coalition known as the Alliance for All Labour Party Stakeholders and Professionals has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of resorting to desperate tactics to discredit Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, in an effort to deter him from contesting in the upcoming 2027 elections.
In a statement issued by its convener, Dr. Blessing Elaigwu, the coalition condemned recent verbal attacks on Obi, particularly those made by APC National Spokesperson, Mr. Felix Morka, during a televised interview.
Dr. Elaigwu pointed out that Morka’s refusal to apologize for his remarks, despite being given multiple opportunities to do so by the program's anchor, reflects the ruling party’s fear of Obi’s growing influence. The coalition expressed concern over what they perceive as blatant attempts to silence dissenting voices in the political landscape.
Part of the statement read: “It is disheartening to witness such blatant attempts to silence dissenting voices. Mr. Morka’s fresh threat to compile and forward a list of 400 Nigerians to security agencies is a brazen effort to intimidate citizens into submission. This is a glaring sign of a government frightened by the inevitable reckoning at the ballot box in 2027.”
The coalition further criticized the APC for what they termed a “policy of institutionalized impoverishment,” accusing the party of creating record-breaking poverty and inequality under its current administration. They stated, “Nigerians are tired of APC’s lies and propaganda. Millions of citizens, battered by this administration’s ruinous policies, are preparing to emulate their Ghanaian counterparts by standing firm against bad governance and reclaiming the economy.”
The coalition warned APC leaders against building an authoritarian system that stifles free speech, emphasizing that Nigerians would not be silenced. “Morka and others in the APC should brace themselves for more criticism. If they aim to silence Nigerians, they might need to expand our prisons and recruit additional wardens because people will continue to demand accountability,” the group declared.
Dr. Elaigwu concluded by expressing confidence in Obi’s ability to lead Nigeria toward economic recovery, stating that the coalition and millions of Nigerians remain steadfast in their support for him. The Labour Party coalition called on the APC to focus on governance instead of intimidation, urging the ruling party to address the pressing issues affecting Nigerians rather than attempting to undermine the opposition.
As the political landscape in Nigeria heats up ahead of the 2027 elections, the Labour Party coalition's statements reflect a growing tension between the ruling APC and the opposition. With accusations of manipulation and intimidation, the coalition emphasizes the importance of free speech and accountability, positioning Peter Obi as a viable alternative for many Nigerians seeking change.