The Osun State Police Command has summoned Senator Francis Fadahunsi, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), over an alleged comment in which he reportedly urged his supporters to “kill” members of the Accord Party.
The development has heightened political tension in the state ahead of the forthcoming governorship election, with the police moving to investigate the circumstances surrounding the controversial statement.
Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District, is expected to appear before police authorities to respond to questions concerning the alleged remark and provide clarification on the context in which it was made.
The police invitation comes amid growing concerns over inflammatory statements and the possibility of political violence as rival parties intensify campaigns and mobilisation activities across the state.
Police seek clarification
The Osun State Police Command reportedly invited the senator as part of efforts to establish the facts surrounding the alleged statement and determine whether it violated any existing laws.
The command is expected to examine available recordings, statements and other relevant evidence as part of the investigation.
The police have repeatedly warned political actors and their supporters against making statements capable of inciting violence, particularly during the election period.
Authorities have also urged political parties to conduct their campaigns peacefully and avoid actions that could threaten the safety of voters, candidates and other participants in the electoral process.
Political tension in Osun
The controversy comes at a sensitive time in Osun State, where political activities have intensified ahead of the governorship election.
The APC is one of the major political parties contesting for control of the state, while the Accord Party and other opposition groups are also seeking to mobilise voters and expand their political influence.
With campaigns expected to become more intense, security agencies have raised concerns about the potential for inflammatory rhetoric to escalate into clashes among supporters of competing parties.
The police invitation to Fadahunsi is therefore likely to attract significant attention, particularly as stakeholders continue to call for a peaceful electoral process.
Concerns over inflammatory rhetoric
Political violence has remained a major concern during election periods in Nigeria, prompting security agencies and civil society organisations to repeatedly caution politicians against making statements that could provoke their supporters.
Election observers have also stressed the importance of responsible political communication, arguing that candidates and party leaders have a duty to discourage violence rather than encourage confrontation.
Against this backdrop, the alleged comment attributed to Fadahunsi has generated criticism, with stakeholders expected to demand clarification and, where necessary, appropriate action from the relevant authorities.
The police investigation will determine whether the senator actually made the statement, the circumstances surrounding it and whether the remark amounts to an offence under Nigerian law.
Fadahunsi’s response awaited
As of the time of the report, attention remained focused on the senator’s response to the police invitation and any explanation he may provide concerning the alleged comment.
It is also expected that the police will establish whether the statement was made in its alleged form or whether it was taken out of context.
The outcome of the investigation could determine whether the matter ends with clarification or progresses to further legal action.
Appeal for peaceful election
Meanwhile, stakeholders have continued to urge political parties and their supporters in Osun State to prioritise peace and issue-based campaigns ahead of the election.
Security agencies are expected to maintain close monitoring of political activities and respond promptly to any threats capable of disrupting the electoral process.
The police have also called on residents to report suspicious activities and avoid spreading unverified information that could inflame tensions.
As the election approaches, the controversy surrounding the alleged statement has once again highlighted the need for restraint among political actors and the importance of ensuring that competition for political office does not degenerate into violence.
The police investigation into Fadahunsi’s alleged comment is expected to provide further clarity on the matter as the state moves closer to the governorship poll.