The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned alleged inflammatory remarks attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi ahead of Saturday’s Osun State governorship election, warning that such rhetoric could threaten peace and democratic participation in the state.
Obi, in a statement on Tuesday, expressed concern over what he described as “intimidation, incendiary remarks, or political threats” capable of heightening tension, frightening voters and potentially triggering electoral violence.
The former Anambra State governor said Senator Fadahunsi, as a serving member of the National Assembly, had a responsibility to promote peace, democratic values and unity rather than contribute to political tension.
He called on Fadahunsi to retract the alleged comments and apologise to the people of Osun State.
“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.
According to him, resorting to threats of force or disruption undermines the credibility of the electoral process and disrespects the electorate.
Obi also urged political leaders, candidates, party supporters and other stakeholders across party lines to moderate their language and demonstrate restraint as the state approaches the August 15 governorship poll.
He called on security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure equal protection for voters, election officials and citizens before, during and after the election.
The NDC presidential candidate stressed that the democratic mandate belongs to the people and should not be determined through fear 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 further appealed to the people of Osun State to remain calm and peaceful while exercising their constitutional right to vote.
He said conducting a peaceful and credible election in Osun would be an important step towards building what he described as a “New Nigeria that is possible.”
The statement comes amid heightened political tension ahead of Saturday’s election, with other political actors, including Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, also raising concerns over alleged threats and security operations targeting opposition figures.
