APC Blasts Governor Makinde Over ‘Operation Wetie’ Reference, Warns Against Inciting Remarks

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticized Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over his recent remarks referencing the “Operation Wetie” political crisis, describing the comments as dangerous and capable of inciting unrest.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the ruling party said Makinde’s speech amounted to “reckless rhetoric” and warned that it posed a potential threat to peace and national stability.

The controversy followed Makinde’s address at the National Summit of Opposition Leaders held in Ibadan on Saturday, where he cautioned against Nigeria drifting toward a one-party system. During his remarks, the governor referenced the “Operation Wetie” era of the 1960s in the former Western Region, a period remembered for intense political violence, including arson and widespread unrest.

Responding to the comments, APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka (CON), said it was inappropriate for a sitting governor to invoke such a historically violent episode in public political discourse.

He further accused Makinde of using the platform to distract from what he described as internal crises within opposition parties, including the PDP, Labour Party, and ADC. According to Morka, the opposition was struggling more with internal disagreements and leadership ambitions than any form of political suppression.

The APC also called on security agencies to remain alert and take necessary steps to prevent any statements that could escalate tensions or encourage disorder in the country.

Defending its record, the party pointed to what it called the openness of Nigeria’s democratic system, noting that the country currently has multiple registered political parties actively participating in elections.

The statement added that attempts to “weaponize historical events” against the government would not succeed, insisting that voters would make their decisions based on performance rather than what it described as political exaggerations ahead of the 2027 elections.