The All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over his reference to the historic “Operation Wetie” crisis during an opposition parties’ summit in Ibadan, describing his remarks as inciting and inappropriate.
APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, led the criticism, accusing the governor of misrepresenting history and making statements capable of heightening political tension ahead of the 2027 elections.
Makinde, who hosted the summit themed “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy,” had referenced the violent political unrest in the old Western Region, noting that it originated from Ibadan.
“Those that are carrying on as if there’s no tomorrow… should remember that Operation Wetie started from here. This is the same Wild Wild West,” the governor said.
Responding, Basiru dismissed the comment as reckless, insisting it lacked proper context.
“It is irresponsible for a governor to make inciting statements without context. Operation Wetie was a reaction to widespread manipulation. Today, the opposition is simply belly-aching because the APC is organised while they are in streams,” he said.
He further urged Nigerians to call out the governor, alleging that he was attempting to “hide his political frustration under the banner of civility.”
Also reacting, APC National Vice Chairman (Southwest), Isaacs Kekemeke, said the remark suggested a dangerous political outlook, warning that it could be interpreted as endorsing violence.
Kekemeke said: “The reference to wetie by the governor of Oyo State constitutes a threat, a sort of incitement and a sign of desperation on the part of those who are becoming partyless. They are whipping up emotions and sentiments because they face a perilous future.
“Our party is a progressive party that has its taproots in the nooks and crannies of the Southwest.
“Our party is not a hurriedly borrowed platform by opposition leaders who lack clarity of thought and visible direction.
“Those inadvertently threatening wetie or violence should redirect their energies to constructive criticisms and mobilisation of their parties and supporters ahead of proposed historic contests in 2027 instead of complaining about the imaginary rigging of elections that are yet to be conducted.
“The allegation of plunging Nigeria into a one-party state is unfounded, malicious and devoid of reason.
“No basis can be found for it in law, history and logic. The 1999 Constitution is clear on the freedom of association and assembly.
“Is the APC or Federal Government responsible for the inability of opposition leaders to resolve their intra-party leadership crises?
“Is APC responsible for the violation of court orders by the PDP?
“Is APC responsible for the act of borrowing a political party by the opposition gang that backfired?
“Even last year, INEC registered two new parties. In a country of 21 parties, how can the allegation of one party system be proven?
“APC is enlarging its coast and the opposition is shrinking and in disarray.
“The difference is clear: it is the leadership, the vision, focus and performance.
“Opposition lacks all of the above.”
Kekemeke also rejected claims that the ruling party was working towards a one-party state, maintaining that Nigeria’s multi-party system remains intact with over 20 registered political parties under the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
On the outcome of the Ibadan summit, where opposition figures resolved to field a consensus presidential candidate, Basiru described the move as unrealistic.
“The so-called Ibadan summit is a ruse.
“It was an assemblage of individuals, not 10 political parties.
For parties to meet there must be prior authorization from the National Working Committees (NWC) or National Executive Committees (NEC).
“Without that, you just have a room full of disgruntled politicians.
“The Turaki leadership of the PDP is still being questioned; the case is in the Supreme Court
“The same applies to others like David Mark. On whose authority were they meeting?” he said.
The APC maintained that it remains open to constructive criticism but would resist what it described as “cheap blackmail” and false narratives about attempts to suppress opposition voices.