Makinde Raises ‘Operation Wetie’ Alarm, Warns of Democracy Erosion at Ibadan Summit

Seyi Makinde has warned that Nigeria risks sliding into a dangerous political path if opposition voices are weakened, drawing parallels with the “Operation Wetie” crisis of the 1960s.

The Oyo State governor spoke on Saturday in Ibadan at a gathering of opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Rotimi Amaechi, Peter Obi and Rauf Aregbesola.

“Operation Wetie,” a violent episode following the contested 1965 Western Region elections, involved attacks on political opponents and destruction of property.

Makinde cautioned: “For those that are carrying on as if there’s no tomorrow, they should remember that ‘operation wetie’ started from here.”

Describing the situation as reminiscent of the “Wild Wild West,” he warned against political actions that could undermine democratic stability.

He emphasised that democracy depends on competition and viable opposition.

“When opposition becomes ineffective, democracy itself loses meaning… Democracy is not defined by the success of one party, it is defined by the existence of real alternatives,” he said.

Makinde also pointed to signs of growing political imbalance, including efforts to consolidate legislative power and internal crises within opposition parties.

“This is not something that we should treat lightly… democracy is not destroyed overnight, it is weakened step by step,” he said.

In his remarks, Pat Utomi described the economic situation as deeply troubling.

“That contrast is not just troubling, it is absurd,” he said, comparing high fuel costs with low monthly incomes of many Nigerians.

He added: “Yet we are often told to ‘be patient’… but patience means very little to those who are hungry today.”

Utomi argued that Nigeria’s challenges are both economic and moral.

“Leadership without character cannot build a nation,” he said, stressing the need for purposeful leadership and reforms.

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