Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East in the National Assembly, presented himself at the Osun State Police Command headquarters in Osogbo on Tuesday following an official invitation by police authorities. The lawmaker arrived at approximately 2:35 p.m. accompanied by the Commissioner of Police in charge of election and security, Samuel Erale.
The invitation follows widespread criticism directed at Fadahunsi and Francis Eniade, the All Progressives Congress candidate for the Ifelodun/Boripe/Odo Otin Federal Constituency, over alleged threats made against members of the Accord Party. A video circulating on social media on Tuesday captured Fadahunsi addressing a gathering in Yoruba. In the footage, he reportedly stated that any Accord Party member sighted in Ilesa before Saturday’s governorship election should be killed.
The remarks have drawn condemnation from political observers and civil society groups, who have called for a thorough investigation into the alleged incitement. The police have not released an official statement detailing the specific lines of inquiry, but the summoning of a sitting senator underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the matter.
Fadahunsi, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, has not issued a public response to the allegations or the content of the viral video. Eniade, the APC candidate implicated alongside him, has similarly remained silent on the accusations.
The incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened political tension in Osun State ahead of the off-cycle governorship election. Security agencies have repeatedly warned politicians and their supporters against inflammatory rhetoric and violence, emphasizing a commitment to a peaceful electoral process. The deployment of senior police officers, including the commissioner responsible for election security, to manage the senator’s appearance signals an intent to enforce accountability.
Legal experts note that public threats of violence, particularly those targeting political opponents, constitute criminal offenses under Nigerian law. If the allegations are substantiated, both individuals could face prosecution regardless of their political standing or electoral candidacy.
The police have assured the public of a transparent investigation. Stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission and international observer missions, are monitoring developments closely. The outcome of the inquiry may set a precedent for how electoral misconduct by high-profile officeholders is addressed in future contests.
As the governorship election approaches, the focus remains on maintaining order and ensuring that campaigns adhere to legal and ethical standards. The situation in Osun continues to evolve, with further police action anticipated pending the conclusion of preliminary investigations.
