Retract 'harmful' statement, apologize to Osun people, Obi tells Senator Fadahunsi

Presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on Senator Francis Fadahunsi to retract his alleged inflammatory remarks and apologize to the people of Osun State ahead of Saturday's governorship election. Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District, faces criticism after a video surfaced showing him purportedly instructing supporters to "kill" members of the Accord Party.

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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.

However, Senator Fadahunsi denies inciting violence, asserting that his instruction was to "kill Accord" with votes, not through physical attacks. Despite this clarification, Peter Obi expressed significant concern over the senator's "threat-laden rhetoric," describing it as capable of escalating tensions within the state.

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political threats and intimidation could heighten tensions, frighten voters and potentially trigger electoral violence.

Obi emphasized that as a high-ranking lawmaker, Senator Fadahunsi bears a constitutional and moral responsibility to promote peace and uphold democratic norms. Obi characterized the alleged remarks as "alarming and unacceptable," warning that political threats and intimidation can heighten tensions, deter voters, and potentially lead to electoral violence. He stressed that elections should be peaceful exercises where citizens freely choose their leaders without coercion.

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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.

"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 stated. He formally demanded that Fadahunsi withdraw his statements and offer an apology to the residents of Osun State. Obi also appealed to all political leaders and stakeholders to moderate their language and exercise restraint during this sensitive period. Additionally, he urged security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure the safety of voters and election officials.

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I therefore respectfully demand that Senator Fadahunsi retract these harmful statements and tender an apology to the peaceful people of Osun State.