The Osun State Police Command has explained its decision to invite Senator Francis Fadahunsi over a statement allegedly threatening members of the Accord Party ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in the state.
The Commissioner of Police in charge of the election, Samuel Etaifo, said the invitation was necessary to obtain clarification from the senator and prevent the statement from escalating political tensions in the state.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, the police were concerned about comments capable of inciting violence during the electoral period.
Etaifo said, “At this critical period of the electoral process, political leaders and public office holders are expected to exercise restraint, promote peace, and refrain from making comments capable of heightening tension or undermining public confidence in the electoral and security arrangements put in place for the forthcoming election.”
The commissioner stressed that the police would remain neutral and professional while taking steps to protect lives, maintain public order and safeguard the electoral process.
He said the command would not tolerate statements or actions capable of provoking violence or threatening the security of Osun State.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police has invited Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi to provide clarification on the statement and to foster mutual understanding in the interest of peace and security,” Etaifo stated.
The police clarified that the invitation should not be interpreted as intimidation, explaining that it was part of preventive measures designed to reduce tension and ensure a peaceful and credible election.
The command also urged politicians, their supporters and residents to avoid inflammatory statements and pursue grievances through lawful channels.
The controversy followed a viral video in which Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District, was allegedly heard threatening members of the Accord Party who might be seen in Ilesa before election day.
Speaking in Yoruba during an event at the palace of the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, the senator reportedly said, “Until the day of the election, if we see any Accord member in Ilesa, we will kill him.”
The statement reportedly came during a protest following the alleged killing of three All Progressives Congress members in Ilesa.
Another APC politician, Francis Eniade, also attracted criticism after a separate video showed him allegedly telling non-APC supporters not to come out to vote in Odo Otin Local Government Area.
Reacting to the alleged threats, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke called for Fadahunsi’s arrest, arguing that the senator’s remarks could trigger violence.
The police, however, said its immediate objective was to invite the senator for clarification and promote peace ahead of Saturday’s election.
The command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order before, during and after the poll, urging all stakeholders to prioritise the peace and stability of Osun State over political interests.
