Manny Ita –
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticised Seyi Makinde over comments referencing the violent “Operation Wetie” era, describing his remarks as reckless and potentially dangerous.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, accused the governor of making statements capable of inciting unrest and undermining national stability. The APC said it was particularly troubling that a sitting governor would invoke such a sensitive historical episode given his responsibility as chief security officer of his state.
Mr Makinde had made the remarks during a political gathering in Ibadan, where opposition leaders met to discuss the country’s political direction. He warned against what he described as growing attempts to consolidate power under one party, suggesting that current developments echo troubling moments in Nigeria’s past. In doing so, he referenced “Operation Wetie,” a period of political violence in the Western Region during the mid-1960s.
“Operation Wetie” is widely remembered as one of the darkest chapters in Nigeria’s political history, marked by widespread unrest following the disputed 1965 regional elections. The crisis contributed significantly to instability in the First Republic and preceded the military intervention of 1966.
Reacting, the APC said the governor’s comments amounted to deliberate incitement, warning that such rhetoric could fuel lawlessness if left unchecked. The party urged security agencies to take the matter seriously to prevent any breakdown of order.
Beyond the immediate criticism, the APC dismissed claims that Nigeria is drifting towards a one-party state, arguing that opposition parties are grappling with internal crises of their own making. The party accused opposition leaders of poor leadership, factional disputes, and disregard for due process.
Mr Morka specifically blamed Atiku Abubakar for contributing to the challenges within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleging that his emergence as the party’s 2023 presidential candidate violated its zoning principles. He also criticised Peter Obi, claiming his frequent movement across political platforms weakened the Labour Party.
The APC further dismissed coalition efforts under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing them as ineffective and undermined by internal power struggles among opposition figures.
Reaffirming its stance, the ruling party insisted that Nigeria’s democratic space remains vibrant, noting the presence of multiple registered political parties actively participating in the system. It maintained that alarm over one-party dominance is exaggerated and intended to distract from the opposition’s internal weaknesses.
The party also reiterated its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions under the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.
