Nigerian lawyer seeks prosecution of senator over alleged call to kill rival party supporters

Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has called for the immediate prosecution of Senator Francis Fadahunsi, demanding accountability for alleged inciting remarks made against Accord Party supporters. The senator, representing Osun East Senatorial District, was invited by the police for questioning regarding a viral video. In the footage, Fadahunsi allegedly urged All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters to "kill" Accord Party members ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State.

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The Senator’s incendiary statement has heightened the already tense political atmosphere in the state, which may lead to a breakdown of law and order and negatively affect voter turnout in the forthcoming election.

Fadahunsi has since attempted to clarify his statement, asserting that he meant the Accord Party should be "killed" by votes, not physical violence. However, Effiong dismissed this explanation as "pedestrian, childish and feeble." The National Human Rights Commission had previously called for the senator's arrest and suspension over the remarks.

Effiong stated that the senator's "incendiary statement" has exacerbated the already tense political climate in Osun, potentially leading to a breakdown of law and order and impacting voter turnout. He warned that the remarks could incite violence against Accord members and supporters of other parties, while also intimidating voters from exercising their constitutional rights.

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The prosecution of the Senator will equally demonstrate to Nigerians that he is non-partisan and impartial.

The lawyer urged the Inspector-General of Police to ensure Fadahunsi is arraigned in court if the investigation finds sufficient evidence. Effiong also highlighted the perceived disparity in police action, noting that Accord Party members had been arrested over "yet-to-be-substantiated allegations of violence." Prosecuting Fadahunsi, he argued, would demonstrate the police's impartiality and commitment to upholding the law for all citizens, regardless of political influence.

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pedestrian, childish and feeble