Group defends Morka, criticizes Obi, supporters
The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has condemned what it describes as the deliberate distortion of comments made by Felix Morka, the spokesperson of the All Progressives Congress (APC), by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and his supporters.
The group accused Obi and his backers of fueling division and heating up the polity through sensationalism and emotional blackmail.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ahmad Sajoh, and Secretary, Afolabi Josiah, the TSF urged public figures to engage in discourse rooted in factual accuracy and devoid of inflammatory rhetoric.
“The ongoing controversy surrounding recent statements by Peter Obi and the subsequent response by Felix Morka would have been unnecessary if the comments were placed in their correct context,” the statement read.
The group emphasized the importance of safeguarding free speech and constructive dialogue while warning against divisive tendencies.
It highlighted that Nigeria is undergoing bold reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including the removal of fuel subsidies, unification of the exchange rate, and significant investment in human capital development. These measures, according to the TSF, are laying the foundation for long-term prosperity despite inherited structural challenges.
While acknowledging the critical role of opposition in democracy, the TSF accused Obi and his “Obidient Movement” of engaging in sensationalism and hysteria that undermine constructive debate.
“No nation can thrive under the influence of emotional blackmail or a rampaging mob that thrives on creating division and despair,” the group stated.
The TSF further alleged that Morka’s remarks had been unfairly twisted to stoke fear and animosity, insisting that the government remains committed to the safety and freedom of all Nigerians regardless of their political affiliation.
The group called on Obi and his supporters to rise above inflammatory rhetoric and focus on rational, solution-driven engagement.
“Leadership demands responsibility,” the statement continued. “Public figures must inspire hope and unity, not amplify division. Nigeria deserves leadership that prioritizes facts over emotional manipulation, progress over chaos, and unity over discord.”
The TSF also appealed to Nigerians to reject divisive narratives, urging political leaders and stakeholders to promote peace and mutual respect in public discourse.
“Divisive rhetoric and baseless accusations only serve to distract from real issues and delay the solutions Nigeria desperately needs,” the group warned. “Constructive engagement, not hostility, is the pathway to the prosperous Nigeria we all desire.”
The TSF reiterated its support for President Tinubu’s administration and its commitment to fostering dialogue that respects dissenting opinions while rejecting the politics of blackmail and hysteria.
“Let us embrace rationality, unity, and collective progress. Public dialogue must inspire hope, not fear or animosity,” the group concluded.
The TSF called on all political leaders and citizens to work together to overcome the nation’s challenges and build a more prosperous Nigeria.
