By John Azu
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has demanded an immediate retraction and apology from Senator Francis Fadahunsi over alleged inflammatory comments ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Osun State.
Obi described the senator’s reported remarks as deeply concerning and inappropriate, warning that inflammatory rhetoric by political leaders could heighten tensions and undermine the peaceful conduct of the election.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Wednesday, Obi expressed concern over what he described as a threat-laden comment attributed to Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
A widely circulated video purportedly showed the senator calling on supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to attack supporters of the Accord Party, which is associated with the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Obi said the comments were particularly troubling given the proximity of the election and the responsibility of political leaders to promote peace and democratic participation.
“As a high-ranking lawmaker representing the people in the National Assembly, Senator Fadahunsi carries a solemn constitutional and moral responsibility to promote peace, uphold democratic norms, and foster unity. It is therefore alarming and unacceptable that a distinguished senator would deploy intimidation, incendiary remarks, or political threats capable of heightening tensions, instilling fear in voters, and potentially inciting electoral violence in Osun State,” Obi said.
He stressed that elections should provide citizens with a peaceful platform to freely choose their leaders without intimidation or coercion.
“Elections are meant to be a celebration of democratic franchise – a peaceful exercise through which citizens freely choose their leaders without intimidation, harassment, or coercion. 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.”
Obi therefore called on Fadahunsi to withdraw the alleged comments and apologise to the people of Osun State.
“I therefore respectfully demand that Senator Fadahunsi retract these harmful statements and tender an apology to the peaceful people of Osun State.”
The former Anambra State governor also urged political leaders, candidates, party supporters and other stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid statements capable of provoking violence before, during and after the election.
He further called on security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure equal protection for voters, election officials and other citizens throughout the electoral process.
“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 urged residents of Osun State to remain calm and peaceful while exercising their constitutional right to vote.
“I urge the good people of Osun State to remain calm, peaceful, and resolute as they exercise their constitutional civic duty at the polls.”
He added: “Getting elections right is a necessary step towards a New Nigeria that is Possible.”
The controversy comes as political parties intensify campaigns ahead of the Osun governorship election, with concerns over inflammatory rhetoric and possible electoral violence drawing increased attention from political actors and other stakeholders.