By Our Correspondent
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has broken its silence over the controversy surrounding comments attributed to an Osun State senator during the ongoing political activities ahead of the state governorship election.
The party has urged the public to allow the appropriate authorities to investigate the matter and determine whether the senator’s comments amounted to an offence under Nigerian law.
The controversy followed the circulation of a video in which Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, was allegedly heard using the word “kill” while speaking about members of the Accord Party.
The statement generated strong reactions across political circles, with critics expressing concern that the language could heighten tensions and create unnecessary fears among political supporters.
However, the senator has denied that he was calling for physical violence against anyone.
He explained that his use of the word was political, arguing that he was referring to defeating the Accord Party at the ballot box rather than physically attacking its members.
Despite the explanation, the issue has continued to attract public attention, particularly because it came at a time when political activities in Osun State are intensifying.
APC Calls for Proper Investigation
Reacting to the controversy, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka said it was not the responsibility of politicians or members of the public to determine whether the senator had committed a criminal offence.
According to him, the police should investigate the matter, establish the context of the statement and determine whether any law was violated.
Morka stressed that the party should not pre-empt the outcome of the investigation by declaring the senator guilty or innocent.
The senator has reportedly appeared before the police following an invitation over the controversial comments, giving him an opportunity to explain what he meant.
Political Tension Builds Ahead of Election
The controversy comes as political parties in Osun State intensify their campaigns and efforts to mobilise voters ahead of the governorship election.
With the contest attracting significant attention, political statements and campaign activities have come under increased scrutiny from residents, political observers and security agencies.
Stakeholders have continued to call on politicians and their supporters to avoid language or actions capable of provoking violence.
Calls for Peaceful Campaigns
The latest development has also renewed calls for peaceful political campaigns across the state.
Observers say politicians have a responsibility to ensure that their supporters understand that political disagreements should be settled through democratic processes rather than confrontation.
Security agencies are equally expected to maintain vigilance and respond appropriately to any development capable of threatening public peace.
Police Investigation Takes Centre Stage
For now, attention remains focused on the police investigation into the senator’s controversial comments.
The outcome could determine whether the matter ends with an explanation from the senator or leads to further legal action.
The APC has maintained that the appropriate authorities should be allowed to establish the facts and determine whether any law was broken.
As Osun State moves closer to the governorship election, stakeholders are expected to prioritise peace, tolerance and respect for the democratic process.
The APC’s position remains clear: let the police investigate the senator’s comments and determine whether they were unlawful.
