Osun Senator Francis Fadahunsi Summoned Over Killing Comment

• Osun State Police Command summons Senator Francis Fadahunsi over threat against Accord Party members.
• Fadahunsi allegedly made a video statement threatening to kill any Accord member sighted in Ilesha before the election.
• Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke demands senator's arrest, stating that his utterances can lead to mass killing.
• Nigerian election law is clear on the conduct of politicians during elections, and Fadahunsi's threat appears to contravene this provision.

Fadahunsi in a statement personally signed by him said his attention has been drawn to an edited video being circulated by Davido on TikTok and Pelumi Olajengb.

The Osun State Police Command has summoned Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East in the Senate, over a threat he allegedly issued against members of the Accord Party ahead of the governorship poll in the state. According to the police spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, the senator was summoned by the Commissioner of Police in charge of the election, Samuel Etaifo. This development comes after Fadahunsi made a video statement in Yoruba language, where he threatened to kill any Accord member sighted in Ilesha before the election. The police have confirmed that they will make a statement available regarding the matter. Meanwhile, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has demanded the senator's arrest, stating that his utterances can lead to mass killing.

Nigerian election law is clear on the conduct of politicians during elections. Section 128 of the Electoral Act 2022 states that no person shall use any words, gestures, or writings which could reasonably be construed to threaten violence against another person or group. Fadahunsi's threat in the viral video appears to contravene this provision. Additionally, the police have a duty to maintain law and order during elections, and summoning the senator is a step towards ensuring that the electoral process is not compromised. Lawyers advising clients on Osun State election matters should be aware of the potential for electoral violence and take steps to mitigate risks, including ensuring compliance with Nigerian election laws and regulations.

The incident highlights the growing tension in Osun State ahead of the governorship poll. The threat made by Senator Fadahunsi has sparked concerns about electoral violence and the potential for mass killing. Governor Adeleke's demand for the senator's arrest is a testament to the gravity of the situation. This development also raises questions about the role of politicians in maintaining peace during elections and the need for stricter enforcement of election laws.

Lawyers advising clients on Osun State election matters should be aware of the potential for electoral violence and take steps to mitigate risks, including ensuring compliance with Nigerian election laws and regulations.

Source: Original reporting via The PUNCH