Obi Demands Fadahunsi Retract 'Harmful' Statement Ahead of Osun Governorship Election

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Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has condemned Senator Francis Fadahunsi for allegedly making inflammatory comments that could threaten peace and security ahead of the Osun State governorship election.

Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District, came under criticism after a video surfaced in which he was allegedly heard directing his supporters to 'kill' members of the Accord Party ahead of the election. The senator, however, denied making a call for violence, saying he instructed his supporters to 'kill' Accord with votes, not through physical attacks.

Reacting in a statement titled, 'Senator Francis Fadahunsi's Incendiary Rhetoric Ahead of the Osun Election', and posted on his official X account on Tuesday, Obi expressed concern over what he described as threat-laden rhetoric capable of escalating tensions in the state.

Obi also called on political leaders, party supporters and other stakeholders to moderate their language and exercise restraint as the state approaches the election. He urged security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure the protection of voters, election officials and other citizens before, during and after the polls.

Senator Francis Fadahunsi is a high-ranking lawmaker representing the people in the National Assembly. He carries a solemn constitutional and moral responsibility to promote peace, uphold democratic norms, and foster unity.

As a former Anambra State governor, Obi has experience in promoting peace and security in the state during his tenure. He warned that political threats and intimidation could heighten tensions, frighten voters and potentially trigger electoral violence.

Elections should be conducted as peaceful exercises through which citizens freely choose their leaders without intimidation or coercion. Obi urged Fadahunsi to withdraw the statement and apologise to Osun residents.

The democratic mandate belongs to the people, and no individual, regardless of status or political office, should attempt to subvert the will of the people through fear or coercion. Obi appealed to Osun residents to remain calm and peaceful while exercising their constitutional right to vote on Saturday.

A sharp Nigerian journalist once said: 'When you threaten the peace, you threaten the very foundation of our democracy.' Obi's concerns over Fadahunsi's comments are a reminder that peace and security are crucial for the success of any election.

As Nigeria heads into another election season, it is essential that leaders and stakeholders take responsibility for promoting peace and security. Obi's call for restraint and moderation is a timely reminder of the importance of protecting the democratic process.

Obi also urged Osun residents to remain calm and peaceful while exercising their constitutional right to vote on Saturday. 'The democratic mandate belongs to the people, and no individual, regardless of status or political office, should attempt to subvert the will of the people through fear or coercion,' he said.

In the statement, Obi also appealed to Fadahunsi to withdraw his statement and apologise to Osun residents. 'Resorting to threats of force or disruption undermines the integrity of our electoral process, disrespects the electorate, and threatens the fragile peace of the state,' he said.

Senator Francis Fadahunsi has been in the news for his vocal support of the ruling party in Osun State. He has been a key player in the state's politics for several years.

Obi's concerns over Fadahunsi's comments are not the first time he has spoken out against inflammatory rhetoric in Nigerian politics. As a former Anambra State governor, Obi has experience in promoting peace and security in the state during his tenure.

In the statement, Obi also urged security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure the protection of voters, election officials and other citizens before, during and after the polls.

The reaction to Obi's statement has been mixed, with some calling for Fadahunsi to retract his comments and others defending his right to free speech. 'Obi is just trying to distract from his own campaign problems,' one supporter of Fadahunsi said.

Others have praised Obi for speaking out against inflammatory rhetoric. 'Obi is a true champion of democracy and peace,' said one Osun resident. 'He is right to call out Fadahunsi for his comments.'

Fadahunsi has not yet responded to Obi's statement. The Osun State governorship election is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 14th.

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