Osun police warn politicians against inciteful comments, summon senator
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Osun State Police Commissioner for Election, Samuel Etaifo, warned politicians against using violence and inciteful comments ahead of the governorship election.
- Senator Francis Fadahunsi was invited for questioning over alleged inciteful comments made against Accord Party members.
- The police emphasized their commitment to neutrality and professionalism, stating that any act inciting violence will not be tolerated to ensure a peaceful election.
Osun State Police Commissioner for Election, Samuel Etaifo, has issued a stern warning to politicians, urging them to refrain from violence and inciteful remarks as the state approaches its governorship election on Saturday. The warning comes as Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun-East Senatorial District, was summoned for questioning regarding alleged inciteful comments made against Accord Party members in Ilesa on Tuesday.
In a statement released Wednesday, the police commissioner condemned the alleged remarks, stressing the need for restraint during this critical electoral period. "Political leaders and public office holders are expected to exercise restraint, promote peace, and refrain from making comments capable of heightening tension or undermining public confidence in the electoral and security arrangements," Etaifo stated. He reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force's dedication to neutrality, professionalism, and safeguarding democratic values.
At this critical period of the electoral process, political leaders and public office holders are expected to exercise restraint, promote peace, and refrain from making comments capable of heightening tension or undermining public confidence in the electoral and security arrangements put in place for the forthcoming election.
Etaifo emphasized that the police will not permit any action, statement, or behavior that could incite violence, disrupt public peace, or threaten the state's security. "Consequently, the Commissioner of Police has invited Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi to provide clarification on the statement and to foster mutual understanding in the interest of peace and security," he added. The commissioner clarified that the invitation is not intended as intimidation but as a proactive measure to prevent escalating tensions and ensure a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election.
The Police Commissioner urged all political actors, their supporters, and the public to remain law-abiding, avoid inflammatory rhetoric, and address grievances through legal channels.
Consequently, the Commissioner of Police has invited Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi to provide clarification on the statement and to foster mutual understanding in the interest of peace and security.
Originally published by Vanguard in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.