Obi carpets Fadahunsi over inciting remarks on Osun election

By Jude Opara

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2027 poll, Peter Obi, has described as worrisome, the alleged tactless and provocative statement credited to Sen.
Francis Fadahunsi ahead of Saturday’s gubernatorial election in Osun state.
Obi, who was writing on his verified X handle called for the immediate retraction of the statement, adding that Osun voters must be allowed to freely vote and peacefully determine who governs them.
He said, “I wish to express my deep regret and profound concern regarding the recent inflammatory comments and threat-laden rhetoric attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi in the lead-up to the Osun State election on Saturday.
“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.
“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.
“I therefore respectfully demand that Senator Fadahunsi retract these harmful statements and tender an apology to the peaceful people of Osun State.
“All political leaders, stakeholders, and party loyalists across party lines must exercise the utmost restraint, moderate their language, and recommit themselves to peace and democratic decorum.
“The relevant security agencies must closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure equal protection for all citizens, election officials, and voters before, during, and after the polls.
“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.
“I urge the good people of Osun State to remain calm, peaceful, and resolute as they exercise their constitutional civic duty at the polls.
“Getting elections right is a necessary step towards a New Nigeria that is Possible.”