A public Affairs Analyst, and former President Nigeria and Africa Union of Journalists, Comrade Lanre Ogundipe, has cautioned political leaders against the use of inflammatory historical references in contemporary political debates, warning that such rhetoric could undermine democratic stability.
Ogundipe was reacting to a recent comment by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who referenced “Operation Wetie” during an opposition summit held in Ibadan.
In a press statement issued from Abuja, Ogundipe described the invocation of “Operation Wetie” as troubling, noting that the term is historically associated with one of the most violent periods in Nigeria’s old Western Region.
According to him, the episode was marked by widespread violence, arson, and deep political divisions that contributed to the collapse of the First Republic.
He stressed that “Operation Wetie” was not merely a political slogan but a tragic period that eroded democratic trust and destabilized governance structures.
Ogundipe argued that applying such a metaphor to present-day political activities is both historically inaccurate and politically irresponsible. He noted that current political dynamics differ significantly from the circumstances that led to the crisis involving the late Obafemi Awolowo and Samuel Ladoke Akintola.
“The present opposition gathering does not share the same political pedigree or ideological context that produced the Wetie era,” he said.
He further warned that the use of such charged language risks trivializing serious political discourse and may encourage a culture of political tension rather than constructive engagement.
“Invoking tragic historical references adds no value to democratic debate. Instead, it risks normalising instability and reducing political engagement to mere emotional spectacle,” Ogundipe stated.
The media veteran emphasized that political leaders must exercise caution in their choice of words, noting that democracy thrives on responsible dialogue, strong institutions, and issue-based engagement.
He urged leaders to avoid rhetoric capable of reopening old societal wounds, adding that historical events should serve as lessons rather than tools for political dramatization.
Ogundipe concluded by stressing the need for leadership that promotes unity and lowers political tension.
“History must remain a teacher, not a weapon. The lesson of Operation Wetie should be simple: never again,” he said
