By Ihechi Enyinnaya
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has condemned what he described as inflammatory and threat-laden remarks allegedly made by Senator Francis Fadahunsi ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Osun State.
Obi, in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Idris Zekeri Jnr, on Wednesday, August 12, demanded the immediate retraction of the senator’s comments and urged political actors to allow the people of Osun State to freely determine who governs them.
Writing on his X handle, the former Anambra State governor said he was deeply concerned by the alleged remarks, warning that inflammatory rhetoric from political leaders could heighten tensions, create fear among voters and potentially trigger electoral violence.
According to Obi, as a senior lawmaker representing the people in the National Assembly, Fadahunsi has a constitutional and moral responsibility to promote peace, democratic values and national unity.
He said elections should be a peaceful expression of the people’s democratic will, stressing that intimidation, harassment, coercion or threats of disruption undermine the integrity of the electoral process and disrespect the electorate.
“I therefore respectfully demand that Senator Fadahunsi retract these harmful statements and tender an apology to the peaceful people of Osun State,” Obi said.
He also called on political leaders, stakeholders and party supporters across the political divide to exercise restraint, moderate their language and uphold democratic decorum before, during and after the election.
Obi urged security agencies to closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure adequate protection for voters, election officials and other citizens participating in 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,” he said.
The NDC candidate further appealed to the people of Osun State to remain calm and peaceful as they exercise their constitutional right to vote.
“Getting elections right is a necessary step towards a New Nigeria that is Possible,” he added.Two suggested headlines: