The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over comments he made during a summit of opposition political parties in Ibadan, describing his remarks as reckless and capable of inciting violence.
In a press statement issued on April 26, 2026, the ruling party accused Governor Makinde of invoking the historical reference of “Operation Wetie”—a period associated with political unrest in Nigeria’s First Republic—in a manner it claims could inflame tensions and threaten national stability.
According to the APC, it is deeply troubling that a sitting governor, who by constitutional mandate serves as the Chief Security Officer of his state, would reference such a violent episode while addressing political grievances. The party argued that such rhetoric goes beyond legitimate political opposition and risks encouraging disorder and instability.
The statement, signed by the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, maintained that Governor Makinde’s comments should not be dismissed as routine political expression. Rather, it warned that the language used could embolden acts of lawlessness and pose a direct threat to peace and security.
The APC therefore called on security and intelligence agencies to take note of the development and act proactively to safeguard lives and property, as well as to protect Nigeria’s democratic institutions from any form of destabilisation.
While acknowledging that elected officials enjoy constitutional immunity, the party stressed that such protections do not absolve them of accountability, particularly in matters that could endanger national security. It insisted that no individual, regardless of position, should engage in rhetoric capable of inciting violence or undermining democratic order.
Beyond its criticism of Governor Makinde, the APC also used the statement to respond broadly to opposition narratives suggesting that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state. The ruling party dismissed such claims as unfounded, attributing the challenges facing opposition parties to internal crises rather than any external suppression.
The APC argued that many opposition parties are grappling with leadership disputes, organisational weaknesses, and internal contradictions, which it described as self-inflicted problems. It cited ongoing factional struggles and disagreements over party structures and candidacies as key factors weakening opposition cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In its assessment, the party suggested that these internal issues have led to a pattern of defections and realignments, with political actors frequently moving between parties in search of favourable platforms. It further contended that such instability undermines the credibility of opposition parties as viable alternatives for governance.
The statement referenced developments within major opposition platforms, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), arguing that each has faced significant internal disruptions. While refraining from detailed elaboration, the APC maintained that these parties have struggled to maintain unity and discipline.
The ruling party also criticised what it described as the opposition’s reliance on alarmist rhetoric rather than substantive policy alternatives. According to the APC, opposition leaders have failed to articulate a clear vision for national development, instead focusing on what it characterised as fear-based narratives aimed at discrediting the government.
The APC emphasised that Nigeria’s democratic system remains open and competitive, noting that multiple political parties are actively participating in the political process. It argued that claims of a one-party agenda are inconsistent with the reality of a pluralistic political environment.
Reaffirming its own position, the party stated that it remains committed to democratic principles, including the rule of law, institutional strengthening, and credible electoral competition. It stressed that it has no obligation to manage or resolve the internal challenges of opposition parties, insisting that each political organisation must take responsibility for its own affairs.
The APC further declared its intention to continue preparing for the 2027 elections through lawful political mobilisation and engagement with voters. It rejected any suggestion that it would be pressured into altering its strategies or abandoning its organisational objectives.
Highlighting the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the party reiterated its commitment to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which it said is focused on delivering economic growth, national unity, and improved living standards for Nigerians.
The statement concluded by urging political actors across the spectrum to exercise caution in their public remarks, particularly in a period marked by heightened political activity. It emphasised the importance of responsible leadership in maintaining peace and safeguarding the democratic process.
As political alignments continue to evolve ahead of the 2027 general elections, the exchange underscores growing tensions between the ruling party and opposition figures, with both sides seeking to shape public perception and consolidate support in an increasingly competitive landscape.
