NIGERIA — Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed concern over what he described as inflammatory and threat-laden comments allegedly made by Senator Francis Fadahunsi ahead of the Osun State election scheduled for Saturday.
Obi, in a statement, said he was deeply concerned that a serving member of the National Assembly would make remarks capable of heightening political tensions, intimidating voters, or potentially contributing to electoral violence.
According to him, Senator Fadahunsi, as a high-ranking lawmaker, has a constitutional and moral responsibility to promote peace, uphold democratic values, and foster unity among citizens.
He described any use of intimidation, incendiary rhetoric, or political threats as unacceptable, arguing that such conduct could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
“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,” Obi said.
He called on Fadahunsi to retract the statements attributed to him and apologise to the people of Osun State.
Obi also urged political leaders, party supporters, and other stakeholders across political divides to exercise restraint, moderate their language, and uphold democratic decorum before, during, and after the election.
He further called on relevant security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure the protection of voters, election officials, and other citizens throughout the electoral process.
“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 residents of Osun State to remain calm and peaceful while exercising their constitutional right to vote.
He said ensuring credible and peaceful elections was essential to building what he described as a “New Nigeria” that is possible.
