Peter Obi demands Fadahunsi apology over ‘kill Accord’ comment

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, has demanded that Senator Francis Fadahunsi retract his controversial remarks ahead of Saturday’s Osun governorship election and apologise to residents of the state.

Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District, has faced criticism over a viral video in which he was alleged to have told supporters to “kill” members of the Accord Party ahead of the August 15 poll.

The senator has since denied calling for violence, insisting that he meant APC supporters should “kill Accord” with their votes at the ballot box.

Reacting in a statement posted on his official X account, Obi described the remarks attributed to Fadahunsi as alarming and capable of worsening political tension in Osun.

“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 warned that inflammatory political rhetoric could frighten voters, heighten tension and potentially trigger violence.

According to Obi, elections should allow citizens to freely choose their leaders without intimidation, threats 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,” he said.

The NDC presidential candidate consequently asked Fadahunsi to withdraw the statement 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.

He also urged political leaders and their supporters to moderate their language as campaigning enters its final stages.

Obi called on security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure adequate protection for voters, election officials and residents before, during and after the election.

“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 added.

He appealed to Osun residents to remain peaceful and exercise their constitutional right to vote on Saturday.