It Wasn’t Political’ — Police Explain Why Fadahunsi Was Invited Ahead Of Osun Election

Etaifo, in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the senator was invited to clarify comments considered capable of increasing political tension in the state.

Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District, came under criticism after a video circulated online in which he was allegedly heard making threatening comments concerning members of the Accord Party in Ilesa.

The police commissioner urged political leaders and public office holders to exercise restraint as the election draws closer.

“At this critical period of the electoral process, political leaders and public office holders are expected to exercise restraint, promote peace, and refrain from making comments capable of heightening tension or undermining public confidence in the electoral and security arrangements put in place for the forthcoming election.”

Etaifo reaffirmed the police command’s commitment to neutrality and professionalism, warning that statements capable of inciting violence or disrupting public order would not be tolerated.

He explained that Fadahunsi’s invitation was intended to clarify the controversial statement and promote understanding among stakeholders.

“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police has invited Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi to provide clarification on the statement and to foster mutual understanding in the interest of peace and security.”

Police: Invitation Not Intimidation

The commissioner stressed that the invitation should not be interpreted as an attempt to intimidate or harass the senator.

According to him, the action formed part of preventive measures aimed at reducing political tension and creating a peaceful environment for the governorship election.

He also urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to avoid inflammatory statements and use lawful channels to resolve grievances.

“The command remains committed to maintaining law and order before, during, and after the election and urges all stakeholders to place the peace and stability of Osun State above partisan interests.”

Fadahunsi, Eniade Under Fire

Fadahunsi and Francis Eniade, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ifelodun/Boripe/Odo Otin Federal Constituency in the 2027 elections, faced criticism on Tuesday over separate comments allegedly directed at Accord supporters.

In the video involving Fadahunsi, the senator, speaking in Yoruba, was reportedly heard warning Accord members against appearing in parts of Ilesa ahead of the election.

The remarks were reportedly made at the palace of the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland during a protest over the alleged killing of three APC members in Ilesa.

Fadahunsi subsequently clarified that his comments were metaphorical, insisting that he was calling on APC supporters to defeat the Accord Party through their votes rather than through physical violence.

In a separate video, Eniade was also accused of telling non-APC supporters not to come out to vote in Odo Otin Local Government Area on election day.

Adeleke Calls for Action

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke subsequently called for Fadahunsi to be investigated, arguing that the senator’s alleged remarks could further worsen political tension ahead of the poll.

Adeleke said he had reported the matter to the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, and requested immediate action.

According to the governor, the IGP acknowledged the existence of the video and assured him that the matter would be investigated.

The police have meanwhile appealed to all political actors and their supporters to maintain peace as security agencies intensify preparations for Saturday’s governorship election.