The presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Mr Peter Obi has expressed strong concern over recent comments allegedly made by Senator Francis Fadahunsi ahead of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday, describing the remarks as inflammatory and potentially harmful to the democratic process.
In a statement titled “Senator Francis Fadahunsi’s Incendiary Rhetoric Ahead of the Osun Election,” Obi said he received reports of threat-laden comments attributed to the senator and considered them troubling, particularly at a time when political tension is already high in the state.
Obi stated that Senator Fadahunsi, as a senior member of the National Assembly, occupies a position that demands caution, responsibility and respect for democratic values. He noted that elected representatives are expected to promote peace, encourage lawful political participation and contribute to national unity rather than make statements that could deepen divisions.
According to him, it is unacceptable for any public office holder, especially one occupying a distinguished legislative position, to use language that may be interpreted as intimidation or a threat. He warned that such rhetoric could heighten anxiety among voters, create fear within communities and increase the risk of violence during the election period.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that elections should be conducted in an atmosphere of peace and mutual respect. He described the electoral process as a democratic celebration through which citizens freely choose their leaders without harassment, coercion or intimidation.
“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 stated.
He argued that any suggestion of force, disruption or political intimidation undermines the credibility of the electoral process and weakens public confidence in democratic institutions. Such conduct, he said, also disrespects the electorate whose votes ultimately determine the outcome of an election.
Obi therefore called on Senator Fadahunsi to withdraw the alleged remarks and publicly apologise to the people of Osun State. He said a retraction would help reduce tension and reassure voters that political leaders remain committed to peaceful democratic engagement.
“I respectfully demand that Senator Fadahunsi retract these harmful statements and tender an apology to the peaceful people of Osun State,” he said.
Beyond the specific issue involving the senator, Obi appealed to all political leaders, candidates, party officials and supporters across party lines to exercise restraint in their public utterances. He urged them to avoid provocative language and conduct capable of inflaming passions or encouraging confrontation.
He emphasised that political competition should be based on ideas, programmes and performance rather than threats or attempts to instil fear in opponents and voters.
The former presidential candidate also called on security agencies to remain vigilant throughout the election period. He urged them to closely monitor inflammatory statements, prevent acts of intimidation and provide equal protection for all citizens, electoral officials, party agents and voters before, during and after the poll.
According to Obi, the neutrality and professionalism of security agencies are essential for a credible election. He warned that selective enforcement of the law or failure to act against threatening conduct could undermine public trust in the electoral process.
He reiterated that democratic power belongs to the people and not to individuals occupying public office. No politician, he said, should attempt to influence the outcome of an election through fear, coercion or abuse of authority.
“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,” Obi stated.
Addressing residents of Osun State directly, he urged them to remain calm, peaceful and determined as they prepare to vote. He encouraged eligible voters to participate in the election confidently and to discharge their constitutional civic responsibility without fear.
Obi concluded by linking the conduct of the Osun election to the broader struggle for democratic reform in Nigeria. He said credible elections are fundamental to national progress and remain an important step toward building the better Nigeria that citizens desire.
“Getting elections right is a necessary step towards a New Nigeria that is possible,” he said.
