A Response to APC’s Felix Morka: An Insult to the Legal Profession -By Abdullahi Abubakar Ladan

The recent press statement issued by Felix Morka, the so-called National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is not only a disgrace to the party he claims to represent but also an insult to the legal profession. Morka’s reckless and unprofessional remarks against Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and two-term Governor of Kaduna State, expose his lack of integrity and his deep-seated conflict of interest as a lawyer dabbling in partisan politics.

It is disheartening to see a supposed legal practitioner stoop so low as to engage in petty name-calling and baseless accusations. Morka’s statement is a clear violation of the ethical standards expected of members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). His blatant partisanship and disregard for objectivity call into question his fitness to hold a legal license. The NBA should take immediate action to investigate Morka’s conduct and consider withdrawing his license to practice law. A lawyer who cannot separate his professional ethics from his political affiliations is a danger to the legal profession and the society at large.

Felix Morka’s attempt to diminish Mallam Nasir El-Rufai’s contributions to the APC and Nigeria is not only laughable but also a testament to his ignorance of history. El-Rufai is a man of proven competence and integrity, whose achievements speak for themselves. As FCT Minister, he transformed Abuja into a modern capital city, tackling corruption and restoring sanity to the administration of the nation’s capital. As a two-term Governor of Kaduna State, he implemented groundbreaking reforms in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations.

El-Rufai’s role in the formation of the APC cannot be overstated. He was one of the key architects of the party’s merger in 2013, working tirelessly to bring together opposition parties and create a platform strong enough to challenge the then-ruling PDP. His efforts were instrumental in the APC’s historic victory in 2015, which marked the first time an opposition party defeated an incumbent government in Nigeria.

In contrast, Felix Morka’s contributions to the APC and Nigeria are nowhere to be found. While El-Rufai was busy building the party and serving the nation, Morka was hiding behind his legal robe, waiting for an opportunity to ride on the coattails of others. Today, as the APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Morka has reduced himself to a mouthpiece for mediocrity, spewing venom and misinformation instead of promoting constructive dialogue.

Felix Morka’s attack on El-Rufai is not only disrespectful but also hypocritical. While he accuses El-Rufai of pursuing personal interests, Morka himself is a glaring example of a self-serving politician masquerading as a lawyer. His statement reeks of desperation and a lack of substance, as he fails to provide any concrete evidence to support his claims.

Mallam Nasir El-Rufai is a man of honor and vision, whose contributions to the APC and Nigeria are well-documented. He does not need to defend himself against the likes of Felix Morka, who is clearly out of his depth. Instead of engaging in petty politics, Morka should focus on addressing the many challenges facing the APC under his watch, including internal divisions, lack of direction, and a growing disconnect with the Nigerian people.

Felix Morka’s press statement is a sad reflection of the state of the APC and the quality of its leadership. Instead of addressing the issues raised by El-Rufai, Morka has chosen to attack his character and legacy, further exposing the party’s lack of credible leadership.

The Nigerian Bar Association must take note of Morka’s conduct and take appropriate action to uphold the integrity of the legal profession. A lawyer who cannot maintain objectivity and professionalism has no place in the noble profession of law.

As for Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, his legacy as a nation-builder and progressive leader remains intact. No amount of baseless attacks from the likes of Felix Morka can erase his contributions to the APC and Nigeria.

Abdullahi Abubakar Ladan