Fadahunsi, as a senior member of the National Assembly, had both a constitutional and moral obligation to promote peace, democratic principles and national unity
By Moses Okorie
The Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has condemned remarks attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Osun State, describing them as inflammatory and capable of escalating political tensions.
Obi, in a statement issued on Wednesday by his media aide, Idris Zekeri, called on the senator to immediately withdraw the statement and urged political leaders and their supporters to allow the people of Osun to freely decide their next governor.
The former Anambra State governor expressed concern that comments perceived as threatening, particularly from a serving senator, could heighten tension, intimidate voters and potentially create conditions for electoral violence.
In a post on his X handle, Obi said Fadahunsi, as a senior member of the National Assembly, had both a constitutional and moral obligation to promote peace, democratic principles and national unity.
He described the alleged remarks as “alarming and unacceptable,” arguing that political office holders should not make statements capable of undermining the electoral process or creating fear among citizens.
Obi stressed that elections should be conducted in an atmosphere where voters can freely choose their preferred candidates without intimidation, harassment or coercion.
He warned that any attempt to disrupt or influence the electoral process through threats would undermine the credibility of the election, disrespect the electorate and pose a threat to peace in Osun State.
The NDC presidential candidate therefore urged Fadahunsi to retract the alleged statement and apologise to the people of the state.
He also appealed to political parties, their supporters and other stakeholders to moderate their language, exercise restraint and maintain democratic decorum before, during and after the election.
Obi further called on security agencies to pay close attention to inflammatory political statements and provide adequate protection for voters, electoral officials and other citizens throughout the exercise.
According to him, the power to determine who governs Osun State rests solely with the electorate and must not be influenced by threats or coercion.
“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 said.
Obi urged the people of Osun to remain calm and peaceful while exercising their constitutional right to vote.
“Getting elections right is a necessary step towards a New Nigeria that is Possible,” he added.