Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned alleged death threats issued by Senator Francis Fadahunsi against members of the Accord Party ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Osun State.
Obi, in a statement posted on X on Tuesday, described the remarks as “inflammatory” and “threat-laden,” warning that such rhetoric could heighten tensions and trigger electoral violence. Fadahunsi, representing Osun East, was reported to have issued the threat in a viral video in which he allegedly warned Accord Party members against being found in Ilesa before the election.
Obi expressed concern that the comments came from a serving member of the National Assembly, stressing that political leaders have a responsibility to promote peace and uphold democratic values. He said Elections should be peaceful exercises that allow citizens to freely choose their leaders without intimidation, harassment or coercion. Resort to threats of force or disruption, he added, undermines the credibility of the electoral process and could instil fear among voters.
The NDC candidate called on Fadahunsi to retract the alleged comments and apologise to the people of Osun State. He urged political leaders, party supporters and other stakeholders across party lines to exercise restraint, moderate their language and commit to peaceful conduct before, during and after the election. Obi also called on security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure equal protection for voters, election officials and citizens throughout the electoral process.
“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 said. He urged the people of Osun State to remain calm and peaceful as they prepare to exercise their constitutional right to vote on Saturday.
The incident underscores growing concerns over political rhetoric ahead of the off-cycle governorship election. Analysts say the response from security agencies and political leaders will be critical in maintaining order, while Obi’s intervention adds to broader calls for issue-based campaigns and strict adherence to electoral guidelines.
