By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned and completely dissociates itself from the act of violence and attack on members of the Press and the institution of the Media by one of its staff, Emmanuel Okoronkwo.

This is coming after the said staff assaulted a correspondent of Sun Newspapers, Ndubuisi Orji at the party’s secretariat on Monday in Abuja.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Debo Ologunagba who gave the indication while addressing journalists on Tuesday, stated that, the Party is committed to the Rule of Law and the democratic tenets of freedom of the Press, transparency and openness which is critical to the activities of the Party and the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria.

He noted that, PDP is reputed for its uncompromising stand in support and defense of the Constitutional freedom of the press and cannot by any means or under any guise whatsoever engage in or condone any act that tends to abridge such legitimate freedom of the Media or any person for that matter.

The National Publicity Secretary therefore assured that the issue will be handled in strict compliance with the Party’s established Code of Conduct guiding activities of staffs at the PDP National Secretariat to serve as deterrent against such condemnable act which has no place whatsoever in the character and comportment of the PDP as a political Party.

He said the Party’s NWC regrets the incident and assured of its unalloyed respect for the Press, particularly members of the PDP Press Corps as they continue as partners in progress for accountability, probity and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria.

Ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed strong disapproval of a perceived threat to the life of Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, by the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka.

Atiku described Morka’s comments as emblematic of a troubling drift toward authoritarianism under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Morka, in an interview on Saturday, accused Obi of spreading misinformation and warned that the former Anambra State governor had “crossed the line.” In response, Atiku, via a statement on Tuesday, decried the APC-led government’s alleged attacks on opposition voices, describing such actions as a serious affront to democracy.

In his statement, Atiku expressed concern over what he described as the APC’s growing intolerance toward dissenting opinions. He linked Morka’s remarks to a broader trend of suppressing opposition, citing the continued detention of government critics like Mahdi Shehu as further evidence.

“The inflammatory remarks issued by Felix Morka directed at Peter Obi serve as a disturbing emblem of the current administration’s unsettling strategy in addressing opposition figures. This threat, coupled with the prolonged detention of voices like Mahdi Shehu, signals a worrisome shift towards authoritarian governance, where the rights of opposition figures are being stifled,” Atiku stated.

He criticized Morka’s warning that Obi should “be ready for whatever comes his way,” calling it an alarming affront to democratic values. Atiku emphasized that in a democracy, opposition voices are not only essential but should be welcomed as part of a healthy political discourse.

Atiku demanded that the APC and Morka clarify the intent behind the threatening remarks and issue a public apology to Peter Obi. He stressed that such inflammatory language undermines civil discourse and sets a dangerous precedent for governance.

“It is not merely the right, but the solemn duty of a democratic government to listen to its critics, engage in dialogue, and allow space for alternative viewpoints,” Atiku stated. “Instead, we are faced with a chilling threat. What exactly does Mr. Morka imply by saying Obi has ‘crossed the line’? The APC must clarify this disturbing insinuation.”

The former PDP presidential candidate also criticized Morka for comparing Obi’s statements on national hardship to a “Wild West scenario,” asserting that Obi’s comments merely reflected the daily struggles of Nigerians under the current administration.

Atiku reiterated that free speech and open dialogue are cornerstones of democracy and urged the APC to embrace constructive criticism rather than resorting to threats.

“The APC must reflect on its responsibility to uphold democratic principles and ensure that the voices of opposition leaders like Peter Obi are not suppressed but respected as a vital part of governance and public accountability,” Atiku concluded.

This incident highlights growing tensions between the ruling party and opposition figures, raising questions about the state of free speech and democratic engagement in Nigeria.

On Tuesday, John Dramani Mahama was officially sworn in as Ghana‘s new president in a grand ceremony attended by global dignitaries and leaders.

The event marked Mahama’s return to power after an eight-year break following his decisive victory in Ghana’s December elections.

The 66-year-old former president secured 56.6% of the vote, a commanding lead in a nation known for its tight electoral contests between its two dominant political parties.

His victory was fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s handling of the economy, especially in the wake of Ghana’s 2022 sovereign-debt default.

Among the international attendees was Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who witnessed Mahama’s inauguration.

Prior to the swearing-in ceremony, a delegation of governors from Nigeria’s opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), paid a courtesy visit to Mahama in Accra.

The delegation included Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

Governor Oborevwori shared the purpose of the visit in a social media post, emphasizing its significance in fostering bilateral ties.

“It was a privilege to pay a courtesy visit to the President-elect of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, earlier today alongside my brother governors. This visit will enhance the bilateral relations between our states and, by extension, strengthen the ties between our beloved country, Nigeria, and our sister nation, Ghana,” Oborevwori wrote.

Similarly, Governor Fintiri expressed that the visit was a gesture of support and solidarity as Mahama embarks on a new chapter of leadership.

A New Chapter for Ghana

Mahama’s return to the presidency comes at a critical time for Ghana, as the country faces significant economic challenges. His administration is expected to focus on economic recovery and fostering regional and international partnerships.

The show of solidarity from Nigerian leaders underscores the importance of strong ties between the two West African nations. With Mahama’s leadership and renewed international support, there is hope for a strengthened partnership between Ghana and Nigeria, fostering growth and development across the region.