The recent invocation of Operation Wetie by Governor Seyi Makinde during an opposition summit in Ibadan highlights a disturbing trend in Nigerian democratic discourse. This casual reference to a dark chapter requires immediate caution and deep public reflection. To understand the gravity of this, one must look back at the historical context of the term.
Understanding the Reality of Operation Wetie
Operation Wetie was never a mere slogan for political excitement or a light-hearted jab at rivals. It served as one of the darkest episodes in the history of the old Western Region. This era was defined by unchecked violence, rampant arson, and intense political hostility. It represented the total collapse of democratic trust and significantly contributed to the eventual fall of the First Republic. It remains a painful, lingering reminder of how reckless politics can destroy vital state institutions and destabilise a fragile society.
Why Historical Political Tragedies Matter
To casually deploy such a volatile metaphor in today’s environment—where the actors, circumstances, and ideological realities are entirely different—is both historically inaccurate and politically irresponsible. The present opposition gathering is not an extension of the historic Awolowo–Akintola crisis. Furthermore, it does not share the same complex political pedigree that birthed the original era of chaos.
Invoking such a tragic reference adds no real value to any serious debate. Instead, it risks normalising the language of political instability in Nigeria. It reduces sophisticated political dialogue to mere emotional theatre designed only to excite supporters and generate cheap applause.
Responsible Engagement Over Reckless Metaphors
Political leaders must understand that words carry heavy consequences. Historical tragedies should not be converted into campaign rhetoric or convenient applause lines for a rally. Democracy is strengthened by robust ideas, solid institutions, and responsible engagement. It is certainly not strengthened by reckless metaphors that threaten to reopen old national wounds.
The lesson of this dark period should remain simple: never again. Nigeria currently requires leaders who actively lower political tension. We do not need those who raise it for temporary personal advantage. As we navigate the complexities of governance, history must serve as a wise teacher, not a tool for cheap political dramatisation.
