Senator Francis Fadahunsi, the lawmaker representing the Osun East Senatorial District, has come under intense criticism after allegedly calling on his supporters to kill members of the Accord Party ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.
The alleged threat was contained in a video shared on social media by Nigerian music star, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido.
According to the translation shared, the senator allegedly told supporters in Yoruba: “From now on, whenever you see Accord members, kill them. I authorise you to kill them. They have wives and children too.”
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The lawmaker also allegedly said supporters of the Accord Party should be prevented from voting, even if they presented valid voter cards on election day.
“This is a Federal Government election. On election day, even if they come with voter cards, we won’t allow them to vote,” the senator was quoted as saying.
In another portion of the video, the lawmaker allegedly warned his supporters against allowing Accord members to operate in the Ilesa area, while urging them to record his comments and show them to members of the opposition party.
The remarks have sparked concern coming just days before the Osun governorship election, with heightened political tensions across the state.
The alleged comments have also raised concerns about the safety of voters and political supporters ahead of the poll, particularly amid growing calls by stakeholders for a peaceful election.
The Osun governorship election is expected to be closely contested, with political parties intensifying their campaigns and mobilisation ahead of Saturday’s vote.
The controversy comes against the backdrop of heightened political activity in the state and increased scrutiny of statements by politicians and their supporters ahead of the election.
Election observers and political stakeholders have repeatedly urged candidates, parties and their supporters to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and allow voters to freely exercise their constitutional rights.
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Any attempt to prevent eligible voters from casting their ballots through threats, intimidation or violence would raise serious concerns about the credibility and safety of the electoral process.
The alleged statement is therefore likely to attract further scrutiny from political parties, civil society organisations and security agencies as Osun prepares for the governorship election.
