– E. Emmanuel
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned comments made by Seyi Makinde in which he referenced the “Operation Wetie” period, describing his remarks as inflammatory and inappropriate for a sitting governor.
In a statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party argued that the governor’s remarks could provoke unrest and threaten national stability. It stressed that such references are particularly concerning coming from a state chief security officer.
Mr Makinde made the comments during a political meeting in Ibadan, where opposition figures gathered to discuss the country’s political climate. He warned against what he sees as a growing push toward one-party dominance and drew parallels with past political crises, citing “Operation Wetie.”
The term refers to a violent chapter in Nigeria’s Western Region during the 1960s, following disputed elections that triggered widespread unrest and contributed to the collapse of the First Republic.
Responding, the APC accused the governor of using dangerous rhetoric and called on security agencies to remain vigilant. The party insisted that such statements should not be dismissed lightly, as they could incite disorder.
The APC also rejected claims that Nigeria is heading toward a one-party system, instead attributing the opposition’s struggles to internal divisions and leadership failures.
It singled out Atiku Abubakar, blaming him for deepening the crisis within the PDP, and criticised Peter Obi for what it described as inconsistent political affiliations that weakened his party.
Additionally, the party dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition as ineffective, alleging it has been weakened by internal disputes.
Reaffirming its position, the APC maintained that Nigeria’s democracy remains active and competitive, with several parties participating in the political process. It added that concerns about one-party dominance are overstated and distract from opposition challenges.
The ruling party also reiterated its commitment to governance and democratic development under Bola Ahmed Tinubu as preparations continue for the 2027 elections.
