Makinde’s Summit Rekindles Hope for Nigeria’s Democracy –Laja Adeoye Campaign Team

…Defends ‘Operation Wetie’ remark, urges media and judiciary to protect democratic values

The Laja Adeoye Campaign Organization (LACO) has praised Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State, for convening what it described as a “historic” national summit of opposition political parties held in Ibadan.

This was in a statement issued and signed by its Campaign Coordinator, Ademola Alebiosu, the group said the summit, which took place on April 25 at the Oyo State Government House, came at a critical time for Nigeria’s democracy.

The gathering was themed “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy.”

LACO commended the participation of leading opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Jerry Gana, Rauf Aregbesola, David Mark, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Amaechi, noting that their presence underscored a shared commitment to national interest above partisan divides.

According to the statement, the summit has “ignited hope” among Nigerians amid dissatisfaction with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It added that Makinde’s initiative demonstrated that a united opposition could provide credible alternatives to governance.

The organization also endorsed the resolutions contained in the Ibadan Declaration, including commitments by opposition parties to defend Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, participate actively in the 2027 general elections, and work toward presenting a consensus presidential candidate.

LACO urged political actors to set aside personal ambitions and collaborate in the broader interest of the country, stressing that unity among opposition parties would yield better outcomes than fragmented efforts.

The group further called on the media and civil society organizations to safeguard democratic values and resist any attempts to undermine press freedom.

It also appealed to the judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, to uphold legal precedents regarding internal party matters in an ongoing case involving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Responding to controversy surrounding Makinde’s earlier remarks referencing “Operation Wetie,” LACO maintained that the governor’s comments were misinterpreted.

The group stated that Makinde did not advocate violence but rather cautioned against policies that could heighten political tensions.

LACO described the summit as a significant step toward building a strong opposition coalition capable of influencing Nigeria’s political future and restoring public confidence in governance.