The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has pushed back against what he described as deliberate misinterpretations of recent remarks made by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, insisting that the governor’s comments were a cautionary note rather than a provocation.
In a statement on Tuesday, Abdullahi said attempts to distort Makinde’s message would not alter the underlying realities, emphasizing that the governor had raised concerns about growing threats to Nigeria’s democratic environment.
“Twisting Governor Makinde’s words won’t change the facts,” Abdullahi stated.
He explained that Makinde’s remarks were intended to draw attention to warning signs often associated with political instability, particularly actions that undermine democratic processes.
“He was clearly warning about the dangers of shrinking the democratic space and ignoring the signals that precede instability,” he added.
Abdullahi further noted that references to historical events should be seen as lessons meant to guide present actions, not as threats or incitement.
“References to history are meant to prevent crisis, not provoke it,” he said.
The ADC spokesman stressed that stakeholders who genuinely support democratic principles have no reason to feel threatened by such warnings.
“If you believe in free, fair, and credible elections, there is nothing to fear. But those working to rig outcomes, silence the opposition, and close the democratic space are the only ones who should feel uneasy,” Abdullahi declared.
He concluded by reiterating the importance of learning from past experiences to safeguard the country’s democratic future.
“History is meant to teach and to warn. History is not meant to threaten anyone except those who are determined to ignore its lessons.”