KEY POINTS

• APC criticised Governor Seyi Makinde for remarks referencing a violent period in Nigeria’s history
• The party warned that such comments could incite unrest and called for security agencies to act
• APC also mocked Atiku Abubakar over a viral photo from the opposition summit in Ibadan

The All Progressives Congress has criticised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over comments he made during an opposition summit in Ibadan, accusing him of making inflammatory remarks capable of heightening political tension.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling party alleged that Makinde referenced the “Operation Wetie” era — a period associated with political violence in Nigeria’s history — to suggest the emergence of a one-party state.

The APC described the remarks as reckless and warned that such rhetoric could threaten national peace and security, especially coming from a sitting governor who also serves as the chief security officer of his state.

Concerns over political tension

The party expressed concern that Makinde’s comments went beyond standard opposition criticism, arguing that invoking a violent chapter of Nigeria’s past could incite unrest and undermine stability.

According to the APC, such statements risk encouraging lawlessness and should not be taken lightly in the current political climate.

The party therefore called on security and intelligence agencies to pay close attention to the development and take necessary steps to safeguard lives and property.

The Ibadan summit, held over the weekend, brought together key opposition figures who resolved to work towards presenting a unified presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

The move is seen as part of broader efforts by opposition parties to strengthen their chances against the ruling party in the next election cycle.

In a related development, the APC also took a swipe at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over a viral image from the summit, which appeared to show him asleep during proceedings.

Ajibola Bashiru, the party’s National Secretary, shared the image on social media, using it to question the seriousness of the opposition’s efforts and to dismiss claims that the APC was unsettled by their attempt to unite.

He maintained that the ruling party remains confident and unshaken despite the opposition’s ongoing consultations and alliance-building efforts.