NDC Presidential candidate, Peter Obi
Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned what he described as “incendiary” comments allegedly made by Senator Francis Fadahunsi ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Osun State, warning that inflammatory political rhetoric could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
In a statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, Obi expressed concern over the senator’s alleged remarks, saying public office holders have a constitutional and moral duty to promote peace rather than heighten political tension.
“I wish to express my deep regret, and profound concern regarding the recent inflammatory comments and threat-laden rhetoric attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi in the lead-up to the Osun State election on Saturday,” Obi wrote.
He stated that as a serving senator, Fadahunsi occupies a position that requires him to uphold democratic values and encourage peaceful political participation.
According to Obi, “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. It is therefore alarming and unacceptable that a distinguished senator would deploy intimidation, incendiary remarks, or political threats capable of heightening tensions, instilling fear in voters, and potentially inciting electoral violence in Osun State.”
The former Anambra State governor stressed that elections should remain peaceful and allow citizens to exercise their voting rights without intimidation or coercion.
“Elections are meant to be a celebration of democratic franchise – a peaceful exercise through which citizens freely choose their leaders without intimidation, harassment, 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.
Obi called on the senator to withdraw the alleged remarks 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,” he stated.
He also urged political actors across party lines to embrace moderation and avoid statements capable of escalating tension before, during and after the election.
“All political leaders, stakeholders, and party loyalists across party lines must exercise the utmost restraint, moderate their language, and recommit themselves to peace and democratic decorum,” Obi said.
The former Labour Party leader further called on security agencies to remain vigilant and ensure the safety of voters, election officials and other stakeholders throughout the electoral process.
“The relevant security agencies must closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure equal protection for all citizens, election officials, and voters before, during, and after the polls,” he added.
Obi maintained that the electorate alone should determine the outcome of the election, insisting that no political figure should seek to influence voters through intimidation.
“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 concluded by encouraging residents of Osun State to remain peaceful and participate in the election responsibly.
“I urge the good people of Osun State to remain calm, peaceful, and resolute as they exercise their constitutional civic duty at the polls.
“Getting elections right is a necessary step towards a New Nigeria that is POssible.”
