The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, in the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, has slammed Senator Francis Fadahunsi over incendiary rhetoric in the buildup to the August 15 governorship election in Osun State.
Obi, in a statement, expressed deep regret, and profound concern regarding the recent inflammatory comments and threat-laden rhetoric attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi in the lead-up to the Osun State election on Saturday.
According to Obi, "as a high-ranking lawmaker representing the people in the National Assembly, Senator Fadahunsi carries a solemn constitutional and moral responsibility to promote peace, uphold democratic norms, and foster unity."
He declared: "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 articulated that 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. He stated that resorting to threats of force or disruption undermines the integrity of the electoral process; disrespects the electorate, and threatens the fragile peace of the state.
Obi, therefore, demanded that Senator Fadahunsi retract the harmful statements and tender an apology to the peaceful people of Osun State.
Obi cautioned that all political leaders, stakeholders, and party loyalists across party lines must exercise the utmost restraint, moderate their language, and recommit themselves to peace and democratic decorum.
He said that the relevant security agencies must closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure equal protection for all citizens, election officials, and voters before, during, and after the polls.
According to Obi, 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.
The NDC presidential; candidate urged the good people of Osun State to remain calm, peaceful, and resolute as they exercise their constitutional civic duty at the polls.
He maintained that "Getting elections right is a necessary step towards a New Nigeria that is POssible." - PO
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