Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the alleged “inflammatory comments and threat-laden rhetoric” attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi ahead of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday.
Obi, in a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, expressed “deep regret” and “profound concern” over the remarks, warning that such rhetoric could heighten political tensions and threaten the peaceful conduct of the election.
The former Anambra State governor said Fadahunsi, as a senior lawmaker representing the people in the National Assembly, had a constitutional and moral responsibility to promote peace, uphold democratic values and foster unity.
“It is therefore alarming and unacceptable that a distinguished senator would deploy intimidation, incendiary remarks, or political threats capable of heightening tensions, instilling fear in voters, and potentially inciting electoral violence in Osun State,” Obi said.
He stressed that elections should provide citizens with the opportunity to freely choose their leaders without intimidation, harassment or coercion.
“Resorting to threats of force or disruption undermines the integrity of our electoral process, disrespects the electorate, and threatens the fragile peace of the state,” he said.
Obi consequently demanded that Fadahunsi withdraw the alleged remarks and apologise to the people of Osun State.
“I therefore respectfully demand that Senator Fadahunsi retract these harmful statements and tender an apology to the peaceful people of Osun State,” he said.
He also urged political leaders, party supporters and other stakeholders across party lines to exercise restraint, moderate their language and recommit themselves to peace and democratic decorum.
Obi called on security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure equal protection for voters, election officials and other citizens before, during and after the poll.
“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.
He further appealed to the people of Osun State to remain calm, peaceful and resolute as they exercise their constitutional civic duty at the polls.
“Getting elections right is a necessary step towards a New Nigeria that is POssible,” Obi added.
