Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has cautioned against the growing trend toward one-party dominance in Nigeria, warning that such a development could undermine the country’s democratic foundations. He made this statement on Saturday while addressing political leaders at a national summit of opposition parties held in Ibadan.
Makinde referenced the historical episode known as “Operation Wetie,” a period of intense political violence in the Western Region during the mid-1960s, to stress the dangers of political imbalance. He reminded participants that Ibadan was once the epicentre of that unrest, which followed disputed elections and widespread allegations of electoral manipulation.
“For those that are carrying on as if there’s no tomorrow. They should remember that “operation wetie” started from here. This is the same Wild Wild West” He said.
Speaking to the opposition party leaders, the governor expressed concern over what he described as deliberate efforts to concentrate legislative power within a single political party. At the same time, he noted that opposition groups appear weakened by internal disputes and ongoing legal challenges, raising doubts about their effectiveness.
He warned that democracy does not collapse suddenly but gradually deteriorates when opposition voices are silenced or rendered ineffective. According to him, the strength of a democratic system lies in the presence of viable alternatives that allow citizens to make meaningful choices.
Makinde urged opposition leaders to take their roles more seriously, emphasizing that political disengagement at this critical time could have long-term consequences. He dismissed any notion that the gathering was driven by personal ambition, insisting that its purpose was to safeguard democratic principles.
The governor concluded by reiterating that strong opposition is not a threat but a necessary pillar of democracy. He called for collective responsibility among political actors to ensure that Nigeria’s democratic system remains functional, inclusive, and responsive to the will of the people.
