NADECO USA has condemned the inflammatory remarks of the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, against 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing the comments as anti-democratic, appalling and dangerous.

In a statement by the president of the group, Lloyd Ukwu, NADECO USA noted that Morka's outbursts are calculated at intimidating Obi and inciting Nigerians against him.

The group also condemned the draconian antics of the APC, stressing that they are intended at watering the ground for full blown autocratic governance ahead of 2027 elections.

The statement issued on Thursday reads: “NADECO USA unequivocally condemns the anti-democratic, appalling, and dangerous statement made by Mr. Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, against Mr. Peter Obi, the Labor Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election and a prominent opposition leader in Nigeria.

“Morka's inflammatory remarks – “Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times and has it coming to him whatever he gets” – are nothing short of a calculated and menacing call to incite harm and intimidation against Mr. Obi. Such reckless and unguarded words betray a deliberate attempt to stifle dissent and intimidate one of the leading voices of democratic reform in Nigeria.

“Moreover, Morka’s baseless assertion that Mr. Obi left no legacy after his eight-year tenure as governor of Anambra State is a blatant falsehood designed to smear his reputation. Mr. Obi’s achievements in governance, fiscal responsibility, and infrastructure development are well documented and widely recognized both nationally and internationally.

“As a pro-democracy organization, NADECO USA stands firm in its commitment to the protection of democratic principles and the rights of all individuals, irrespective of their political affiliations.

“Threats, intimidation, and divisive rhetoric have no place in a civil society. These actions from APC leaders suggest a deliberate strategy to undermine opposition voices and pave the way for further authoritarian measures ahead of the 2027 elections.

“The APC, under the leadership of Mr. Tinubu, is escalating a pattern of repressive behavior aimed at silencing critics of its disastrous administration. This is not merely a political maneuver; it is a direct attack on the fundamental values of democracy, accountability, and freedom of expression.

“NADECO USA firmly supports Mr. Peter Obi, who has consistently championed democracy, transparency, and good governance. Despite relentless attacks, Mr. Obi has shown commendable restraint by urging his supporters to avoid violence and adhere to the rule of law. It is, therefore, ludicrous and hypocritical for the APC to accuse him of crossing undefined “lines.” What “lines” has he crossed other than exposing the administration’s failures?

“We call on all Nigerians to categorically reject these divisive, threatening tactics and to uphold the ideals of democracy, tolerance, and mutual respect. The deliberate targeting of political opponents is a grave threat to the stability and progress of Nigeria.

“NADECO USA warns that these remarks could signal an ominous test of the Nigerian people’s resolve by the APC. As such, we urge citizens to brace themselves for potential challenges and remain steadfast in resisting any attempts to derail democratic progress.

“A few weeks, ago it was the arrest of Mr. Dele Farotimi, and now this. Nigerians should expect more in the coming months and years leading up to the 2027 presidential election.

“We demand that the APC and its representatives immediately cease their incendiary rhetoric and focus on fostering a constructive dialogue that addresses the genuine needs and aspirations of Nigerians.

“NADECO will not sit idly by while threats and coercion are used to suppress political opposition and intimidate those advocating for change.”