The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has expressed concerns over the deliberate twisting of the innocuous comments made by the spokesman of the All Progressives Congress, Mr Felix Morka by the former candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi during the 2023 President elections and his supporters stoking embers of fear and animosity to heat up the polity.
In a statement signed by its Chairman Ahmad Sajoh and Secretary Afolabi Josiah, the group said public comments should be rooted in factual accuracy devoid of sensationalism.
“The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) said it noted the ongoing controversy arising from recent statements made by Peter Obi and the subsequent response by Felix Morka, adding that they would have been needless if the comments were placed in their right perspectives.
“While it is essential to safeguard the principles of free speech and constructive dialogue, it is equally important to ensure that public statements are rooted in factual accuracy, devoid of sensationalism and divisive tendencies.
“Nigeria is at a critical juncture, navigating complex challenges with bold reforms under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Despite inheriting profound structural issues, the government has taken courageous steps to stabilize the economy, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, unification of the exchange rate, and unprecedented investment in human capital development. These reforms are laying the foundation for long-term prosperity for all Nigerians.
“Critical engagement of government policies is welcome in a democracy, but they must be rational, constructive, and solution-driven. Unfortunately, what we see from Mr Obi and his supporters under the guise of the “Obidient Movement” is often a descent into sensationalism and mass hysteria that undermines meaningful discourse.
“No nation can be governed effectively under the influence of emotional blackmail or a rampaging mob that thrives on creating division and despair.
“Mr Felix Morka’s remarks have been unfairly distorted in some quarters to stoke fear and animosity. TSF unequivocally reaffirms that the government remains committed to the safety, security, and freedom of all Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliation.
“The administration encourages healthy debate and welcomes constructive criticism but rejects attempts to exploit misunderstandings or mischaracterizations for political gain,” TSF explained.
The group added that while opposition figures could have their say, they should do so without resorting to baseless accusations
It said: “While Mr Obi has a right of opinion on government policies, we urge him and his supporters to rise above inflammatory rhetoric and baseless accusations. Leadership demands responsibility, and public figures should focus on inspiring hope and unity, not amplifying division.
“The so-called “Obidient Movement” must understand that responsible governance requires rational debate and a focus on solutions, not sensational narratives that mislead the public. The Nigerian people deserve leadership that prioritizes facts over emotional manipulation, progress over pandemonium, and unity over discord.
“Public figures, including Mr Obi, bear a responsibility to promote peace and cohesion in the national discourse. Divisive rhetoric and baseless accusations only serve to distract from the real issues and delay the solutions Nigeria desperately needs.
“We call on Nigerians to resist the temptation of being drawn into narratives that exploit emotions and deepen divisions. This is a time to work together to overcome our challenges. Constructive engagement, not hostility, is the pathway to the prosperous Nigeria we all desire.
“While the road to recovery may be challenging, the administration remains steadfast in its commitment to building a nation that works for all Nigerians. TSF reiterates its unwavering commitment to promoting the achievements of this administration while fostering an environment where dissenting opinions are treated with respect.
“Let us reject the politics of blackmail and hysteria and instead embrace rationality, unity, and collective progress. Public dialogue must inspire hope, not fear or animosity.”
TSF also appealed to all political leaders, stakeholders, and citizens to uphold the values of civility and mutual respect.
