APC Blasts Makinde Over ‘Operation Wetie’ Remark Ahead of 2027 Elections

APC Blasts Makinde Over ‘Operation Wetie’ Remark Ahead of 2027 Elections

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his reference to the historic “Operation Wetie” violence during a recent opposition political gathering in Ibadan, describing the comment as inciting, irresponsible, and politically dangerous.

Makinde made the remark while addressing an opposition summit themed “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy”, where he warned against what he described as attempts to impose a one-party system in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In his speech, the governor referenced the 1960s political unrest in the old Western Region, stating that “Operation Wetie started from Ibadan before spreading to other parts of the region.” The phrase, which historically refers to violent political clashes during Nigeria’s First Republic, has since triggered widespread controversy.

APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, condemned the comment, saying the governor’s statement was “irresponsible and capable of inciting violence.” He argued that Makinde was misrepresenting historical events and accused the opposition of attempting to create tension ahead of the next elections.

Basiru said the ruling party remains committed to democratic principles, insisting that Nigeria cannot be described as a one-party state given the existence of over 20 registered political parties under the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He further criticised opposition leaders for what he described as internal disorganisation, claiming that their inability to resolve leadership disputes was being wrongly blamed on the APC.

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Similarly, APC National Vice Chairman (Southwest), Dr. Isaacs Kekemeke, described Makinde’s remarks as a “misreading of history” and accused him of making statements capable of raising political tension unnecessarily.

Kekemeke maintained that the ruling party is not interested in weakening opposition voices, stressing that democracy thrives on competition and accountability. He also dismissed claims of a planned one-party system, describing them as “politically motivated and baseless.”

He argued that opposition parties were struggling due to internal crises rather than any interference from the APC, adding that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains committed to democratic freedoms and political plurality.

The APC chieftain also criticised the outcome of the Ibadan opposition summit, where several political figures reportedly agreed to work toward fielding a single presidential candidate for 2027. He described the arrangement as unrealistic and bound to fail due to ideological differences and internal divisions.

Presidential aide, Chief Sunday Dare, also weighed in, dismissing the opposition coalition as weak and fragmented, saying it lacked the structure to challenge the ruling party effectively.

Meanwhile, reactions have continued to trail Makinde’s comments on social media, with critics accusing him of invoking Nigeria’s violent political history, while supporters insist his remarks were intended as a caution against political exclusion and democratic decline.

Makinde has yet to issue a fresh response following the backlash.

APC Blasts Makinde Over ‘Operation Wetie’ Remark Ahead of 2027 Elections