By Dennis Okechukwu
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly condemned remarks by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, accusing him of inciting violence during a recent opposition gathering in Ibadan.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling party alleged that Makinde referenced the historical “Operation Wetie” crisis while addressing opposition figures on April 25, warning that such rhetoric could provoke unrest.
The APC described the governor’s comments as “reckless” and a threat to national peace and security, stressing that it was disturbing for a sitting governor and chief security officer of a state to evoke a violent episode in Nigeria’s political history. The party further declared Makinde “unworthy” of his office, arguing that his statements went beyond normal opposition discourse and could fuel lawlessness and instability.
Calling for urgent action, the party urged security and intelligence agencies to take the matter seriously in order to safeguard lives, property, and Nigeria’s democratic system. It also warned that constitutional immunity does not shield public officials from accountability in matters relating to national security.
The APC also used the statement to criticise opposition parties, dismissing claims that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state. It argued that internal crises within opposition groups were self-inflicted, citing leadership struggles, factionalisation, and what it described as disregard for due process.
The party specifically accused Atiku Abubakar of contributing to the decline of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the 2023 presidential ticket dispute. It also took aim at Peter Obi, claiming his movement across political platforms weakened the Labour Party Nigeria. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) was similarly described as ineffective due to internal leadership struggles.
Reaffirming its position, the APC maintained that Nigerians would not entrust governance to parties unable to manage their own affairs, adding that opposition leaders had failed to present a credible alternative vision for national development.
The party emphasised its readiness for the 2027 general elections and rejected any expectation that it would intervene in resolving opposition disputes. It added that Nigeria’s democratic space remains vibrant, with multiple political parties participating freely.
The statement reiterated the commitment of President Tinubu’s administration to strengthening democratic institutions, upholding the rule of law, and advancing its Renewed Hope Agenda.