The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over comments he made at a summit of opposition leaders, describing his remarks as provocative and capable of inciting violence.
Makinde, while speaking at the National Summit of All Opposition Political Party Leaders, warned against the emergence of a one-party state in Nigeria and referenced the infamous “Operation Wetie” crisis that shook the South-West in the 1960s.
According to him, “For those carrying on as if there’s no tomorrow, they should remember that ‘Operation Wetie’ started from here. This is the same Wild Wild West.”
“Operation Wetie,” a Yoruba phrase meaning “wet him” or “soak it,” became associated with political violence in the Western Region, where opponents were reportedly attacked, doused with petrol, and set ablaze during the aftermath of the disputed 1965 regional elections.
Reacting swiftly, the APC, in a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, condemned the governor’s remarks, saying it was disturbing that a sitting governor and chief security officer of a state would invoke such a violent chapter in Nigeria’s political history.
The ruling party warned that the statement could trigger unrest, describing it as capable of provoking “anarchy, murderous rage and widespread lawlessness.”
“By his incitement to violence, Makinde has shown himself unworthy of the high office of Governor that he occupies,” the APC stated.
The party also called on security and intelligence agencies to investigate the matter, stressing that constitutional immunity does not exempt elected officials from accountability when national security is at stake.
“Makinde must be reminded that constitutional immunity from prosecution is not immunity from accountability for threats or acts against national security,” the statement added.
The APC further dismissed concerns about Nigeria drifting into a one-party state, insisting that the opposition’s current troubles were self-inflicted.
It also took a swipe at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, accusing them of worsening internal crises in their parties instead of building viable alternatives.
The ruling party concluded by expressing confidence ahead of the 2027 general elections, reaffirming its support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and insisting that Nigeria’s democratic space remains open.
