Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State has invoked the violent legacy of Nigeria’s infamous “Operation Wetie” to warn against growing concerns of one-party dominance in the country.
Speaking in Ibadan at a national summit of opposition leaders, the Oyo State governor referenced the mid-1960s political crisis in the Western Region, where widespread violence followed a disputed election.
“Operation Wetie”, a Yoruba phrase meaning “wet him” or “soak it” became synonymous with brutal political attacks in which opponents were doused with petrol and set ablaze during the unrest that trailed the 1965 regional elections.
Makinde cautioned that current political developments, particularly moves to consolidate legislative control under a single party, could have dangerous consequences if left unchecked.
“For those acting as if there is no tomorrow, they should remember that ‘Operation Wetie’ started from here. This is the same Wild Wild West,” he said.
He expressed concern that opposition parties are increasingly weakened by internal crises and legal disputes, raising doubts about their effectiveness in providing credible alternatives.
According to him, democracy cannot thrive without a strong opposition, warning that its erosion often happens gradually.
“Democracy is not destroyed overnight; it is weakened step by step until people begin to feel it no longer works,” Makinde said.
He stressed that the gathering of opposition leaders was not driven by personal ambition or political vendetta but by a shared commitment to preserving democratic values.
“This is not about one man or individual ambition. It is about ensuring that Nigerians have a democracy that works,” he added.
Makinde emphasised that even the most popular governments require credible opposition to sustain democratic balance, insisting that alternative voices are essential to citizens’ freedom of choice.
