Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, has issued a clarification regarding a viral video in which he appeared to incite violence against members of the Accord Party. In the footage, widely circulated on social media, Fadahunsi is heard speaking in Yoruba, seemingly urging a gathering of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters in Ilesa to attack Accord Party members. The senator was addressing the crowd ahead of the August 15, 2026, Osun State governorship election, and he also challenged anyone present to record and share his words online.
Senator Calls Remarks Metaphorical
In a statement issued by his media office on Tuesday, titled "Kill Osun Accord with Votes, Not Violence, Senator Fadahunsi Tells APC," the senator distanced himself from any suggestion that he incited physical harm. He said his comment was "a call on supporters to overwhelmingly reject the Accord Party at the ballot box through lawful, peaceful and democratic means during the August 15 governorship election." The statement further read: "For the avoidance of doubt, the Senator's statement was purely political and metaphorical."
His office added that the remark did not reflect the views of someone advocating violence against members of any political party or the general public. Fadahunsi also appealed to APC supporters to conduct themselves peacefully throughout the election period. He called on security operatives to ensure that voters could exercise their constitutional rights without interference.
Adeleke Campaign Demands Police Action
The clarification came after the campaign council of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke took a firm stance on the matter. The council formally petitioned Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu, asking him to investigate Fadahunsi's comments and take appropriate action. The petition followed the viral spread of the video, which drew widespread condemnation and raised concerns about potential violence during the election period.
Election Scheduled for August 15
The Osun State governorship election is scheduled for August 15, 2026. The incident has heightened tensions in the state, with political observers closely monitoring the situation. Fadahunsi's clarification aims to reassure the public and security agencies that his remarks were not a call to violence, but rather a metaphorical appeal to voters to support the APC at the polls. The outcome of the police investigation remains pending as the election date approaches.
