The recent speech by the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Debo Ologunagba, condemning the remarks made by the National Chairman of the Progressive Democratic Party (PPD), Abdullahi Ganduje, about the intention to “capture” Ondo State and by extension, the entire South-West region, has generated a wave of reactions and controversies. The words resonated as a threat to the people of the region, whom Debo Ologunagba described as “reckless and threatening”.
In his press statement at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja, Debo Ologunagba expressed concern over Ganduje’s statements, saying the word “capture” implies forceful control or occupation, which the PDP cannot accept without reacting. He stressed that the South-West has always been a stronghold of opposition and democracy, and that any attempt at forceful takeover by the PDP would be strongly opposed.
The history of the region is replete with examples where attempts to impose control have led to significant unrest. Events such as the “wetie” crisis in the 1960s and the efforts of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) to impose Akin Omoboriowo as governor in 1983 are reminders of the dire consequences of ignoring the will of the people. Thus, Ologunagba warned that any attempt by the PDP to impose itself on the people of Ondo would be vigorously contested.
Furthermore, the PDP reiterated the call by the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for the redeployment of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of Ondo State. Ologunagba accused the Ondo State REC of collaborating with the PDP leadership and displaying clear bias. For the PDP, such bias compromises the integrity of the electoral process and must be rectified.
Thus, in the face of perceived threats and alleged bias, the political scene in the South-West region promises to be tense and prone to potential confrontations. Political parties will have to navigate with caution to avoid any escalation of the situation and ensure free and fair elections.