By Duchess Ifeoluwa
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned remarks attributed to the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, accusing him of inciting violence and questioning his fitness for office.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling party alleged that Makinde invoked the violent history of “Operation Wetie” while addressing a summit of opposition parties in Ibadan on Saturday, to stoke public unrest over what he described as a drift toward a one-party state.
The APC described the governor’s comments as reckless and dangerous, warning that such rhetoric could threaten national peace and security.
“It is particularly disturbing for a sitting governor, who bears constitutional responsibility as Chief Security Officer of his state, to invoke one of the darkest episodes in Nigeria’s political history in a manner capable of inciting violence,” the statement said.
The party argued that Makinde’s remarks went beyond routine opposition criticism, alleging that they could fuel lawlessness and undermine democratic stability if not addressed.
It called on security and intelligence agencies to take the matter seriously and act to safeguard lives and property, insisting that no public office holder should make statements capable of endangering national security.
The APC further stated that constitutional immunity does not absolve elected officials of accountability for actions or statements deemed threatening to public order.
The party also dismissed claims by opposition figures about the emergence of a one-party state, attributing challenges within opposition parties to internal crises, poor leadership and factional disputes.
It cited divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), as well as struggles within emerging coalition platforms, as evidence of what it described as self-inflicted setbacks.
According to the APC, opposition parties have failed to present a credible alternative vision for governance, relying instead on what it termed “alarmist narratives” and “fear mongering” against the ruling party.
The party maintained that Nigeria’s democratic space remains open and competitive, noting that multiple political parties are actively participating in the electoral process.
Reaffirming its position, the APC said it would not be distracted by opposition criticisms, adding that it remains focused on strengthening democratic institutions and delivering on its governance agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
It also reiterated its readiness to compete in the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence in its policies and leadership.
As of the time of filing this report, Governor Makinde had not issued an official response to the APC’s claims.
