The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticized Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State over comments he made at an opposition summit in Ibadan, warning that his remarks could threaten national peace and stability.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling party accused the governor of invoking Nigeria’s violent political past, specifically the era known as Operation Wetie, in a manner it described as “reckless” and “dangerous.”
The APC alleged that Makinde, while addressing opposition figures on Saturday, suggested that Nigeria was drifting towards a one-party state and used historical references that could incite unrest.
The party said such rhetoric was unbecoming of a sitting governor, particularly one regarded as the chief security officer of his state.
“It is disturbing that a leader entrusted with maintaining peace would allude to one of the darkest periods in our political history in a way that could inflame tensions,” the statement said.
The party warned that Makinde’s comments should not be dismissed as routine opposition politics, arguing that they carry the potential to trigger disorder and undermine democratic stability.
It called on security and intelligence agencies to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to safeguard lives and property.
While noting that governors enjoy constitutional immunity, the APC stressed that no public official is above accountability, especially in matters relating to national security.
The statement also aimed at opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC), accusing them of internal crises and weak leadership.
According to the APC, the PDP’s challenges stemmed from disputes surrounding the emergence of its 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, while the Labour Party was criticised over the political trajectory of its candidate, Peter Obi. The ADC, it added, had struggled to establish itself as a viable coalition platform.
The ruling party dismissed claims that Nigeria was heading towards a one-party system, insisting that the country’s political space remains open and competitive, with multiple registered parties actively participating in the democratic process.
Reaffirming its readiness for the 2027 general elections, the APC said it would not be distracted by what it described as “alarmist narratives” from opposition figures.
The party also reiterated its commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthening democratic institutions, upholding the rule of law, and delivering on its governance agenda.
