Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, has clarified his controversial “Kill Accord” comment, saying the remark was a political metaphor urging All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters to defeat the Accord Party at the ballot box. The clarification came after a viral video sparked outrage and calls for his arrest.
Viral Video and Initial Outrage
On Monday, a video went viral showing Fadahunsi speaking in Yoruba while accusing members of the Accord Party of attacking APC supporters and urging those at a gathering in Ilesa to confront Accord supporters. The senator was also seen challenging those present to film him and post the videos on social media.
In the video, Fadahunsi said: “The cap they wear – it is Yellow Fever cap, it is the cap of an animal. It is an animal that k!lls. Have you ever heard that APC k!lled anyone? Are those being k!lled not your people? So, we have come to tell you, up till the day of the election, if we see them, it is k!lling.”
His comment sparked widespread condemnation online, with many, including Governor Adeleke, calling for his arrest. The video was shared widely on social media platforms, amplifying the controversy ahead of the Osun State governorship election.
Clarification in Interview
However, in an interview with Channels TV on Monday, August 11, Fadahunsi said his comment was taken out of context. According to him, he asked his members to 'kill' Accord party members with their votes, and not literally or fatally.
“I told my people to k!ll Accord party members with their votes,” he said, emphasizing that the statement was a political metaphor aimed at defeating the opposition at the polls, not inciting violence.
Election Context and Impact
The clarification comes ahead of the August 15 Osun State governorship election, where the APC and Accord Party are key contenders. The controversy has heightened political tensions in the state, with opposition figures and civil society groups demanding accountability.
Governor Adeleke, who had called for Fadahunsi's arrest, has not yet responded to the clarification. The incident underscores the volatile nature of political rhetoric during election campaigns, as parties vie for control of the state government.
