By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused Seyi Makinde of inciting violence, declaring him “unworthy of the office” he occupies following remarks allegedly referencing the historic “Operation Wetie” crisis during a political gathering in Ibadan.
In a strongly worded press statement issued on April 26, 2026, and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling party said Makinde’s comments at an opposition summit amounted to a “reckless” invocation of one of Nigeria’s bloodiest political episodes.
“Governor Makinde’s incitement is reckless, and a clear and present threat to peace and national security,” the APC said, adding that it was “particularly disturbing for a sitting Governor… to conjure up one of the darkest episodes of political violence in Nigeria’s history to threaten violence.”
The party further stated, “By his incitement to violence, Makinde has shown himself to be unworthy of the high office of Governor that he occupies.”
According to the APC, Makinde referenced “Operation Wetie”—a violent political crisis associated with the Western Region in the 1960s—while addressing opposition figures on April 25 in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The party argues that such rhetoric could inflame tensions and trigger unrest.
The statement warned that the governor’s remarks “risk fueling anarchy, murderous rage and widespread lawlessness capable of undermining national stability,” and called on security and intelligence agencies to take the matter seriously.
The APC also emphasized that constitutional immunity does not shield public office holders from accountability in matters affecting national security. “No individual, however highly placed, should have the power to threaten or endanger the lives and safety of Nigerians,” the statement added.
The development comes amid rising political tensions ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, with opposition parties increasingly critical of the ruling party. The APC dismissed claims by opposition figures that the country is drifting toward a one-party state, describing such assertions as “false narratives” and a reflection of internal crises within rival parties.
The party criticized key opposition actors, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, accusing them of contributing to instability within their respective parties. It claimed that opposition groups are weakened by “poor leadership, internal contradictions, and persistent factionalization.”
Analysts say the APC’s statement could deepen political polarization and escalate tensions between ruling and opposition parties. Calls for security agencies to intervene may also raise concerns about potential political investigations or scrutiny of opposition figures.
If not carefully managed, the situation could heighten political rhetoric nationwide, particularly as parties begin early mobilization for 2027. Observers warn that references to historical violence like “Operation Wetie” carry symbolic weight and could influence public sentiment in volatile ways.
At the same time, the controversy may prompt responses from Makinde or opposition leaders, potentially setting the stage for a broader political confrontation over freedom of speech, political expression, and national security boundaries.
Reaffirming its stance, the APC stated its commitment to democratic governance under the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing its focus on “strengthening democratic institutions, upholding the rule of law, and delivering on the Renewed Hope
.
As of press time, there has been no official response from Governor Makinde regarding the allegations.
