By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
There was outrage on Tuesday following a viral video in which Senator Francis Fadahunsi was allegedly heard making a statement calling for the killing of members of the Accord Party ahead of the August 15 election in Osun State.
In the video circulating on social media, the senator is allegedly heard saying, “Whenever you see Accord members, kill them. I authorise you to kill them.”
The alleged statement has sparked concerns among political stakeholders and residents, who described it as a serious threat that should not be ignored by security agencies.
The development has also raised fears over the safety of Accord members, supporters and other voters as political activities intensify ahead of the election.
Those who expressed concern over the alleged statement called on the Inspector-General of Police to immediately investigate the video and establish its authenticity, circumstances and context.
They maintained that political differences should never be allowed to degenerate into threats against human lives, stressing that every Nigerian has a fundamental right to life and participation in the democratic process.
The stakeholders also warned against any attempt to intimidate or prevent Osun residents from exercising their franchise during the August 15 poll.
They urged the police and other security agencies to provide adequate security for voters and political parties, while ensuring that all participants are treated fairly regardless of their political affiliation.
According to them, the responsibility of political leaders is to promote peace and encourage their supporters to embrace democratic competition rather than violence.
They further called on political parties and their supporters to exercise restraint and avoid provocative statements capable of heightening tension in the state.
The stakeholders insisted that the August 15 election must be allowed to take place peacefully, with every eligible voter given the opportunity to cast their ballot without fear, intimidation or harassment.
They said the alleged video should be thoroughly investigated and, if found to contain an unlawful threat or incitement to violence, appropriate action should be taken in accordance with the law.
“Nobody has the right to kill an Accord member or any other citizen. Nobody has the right to stop Osun people from voting,” they said.
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