Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned what he described as inflammatory comments and threat-laden rhetoric attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi ahead of Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.
Obi, in a statement posted on his Facebook page, expressed concern that the remarks could heighten political tensions, intimidate voters and potentially trigger electoral violence in the state.
The former Anambra State governor said Fadahunsi, as a serving member of the National Assembly, had a constitutional and moral responsibility to promote peace, democratic values and national unity.
“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,” Obi said.
He described it as alarming and unacceptable for a senator to allegedly deploy intimidation, incendiary remarks or political threats capable of instilling fear among voters and undermining the peaceful conduct of the election.
Obi stressed that elections should provide citizens with the opportunity to freely choose their leaders without intimidation, harassment or coercion.
According to him, threats of force or disruption undermine the integrity of the electoral process, disrespect the electorate and endanger the fragile peace in Osun State.
He therefore called on Fadahunsi to withdraw the statements attributed to him 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,” Obi said.
The NDC presidential candidate also appealed to political leaders, stakeholders and supporters of all parties to exercise restraint and moderate their language as the state prepares for the election.
He urged political actors to recommit themselves to peace and democratic decorum, stressing that the responsibility for ensuring a peaceful election should not be left to one political party or group.
Obi further called on security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and provide equal protection for voters, election officials and other citizens 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,” he said.
He 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,” Obi added.
