By Isaac Mission
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has called for the immediate investigation, arrest and prosecution of Senator Francis Fadahunsi over a viral video in which the lawmaker was allegedly heard making threatening remarks against members and supporters of the Accord Party ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Adeleke made the demand on Tuesday during an emergency press briefing in Osogbo, where he also raised concerns over alleged security operations targeting Accord Party leaders across the state.
Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has come under criticism following the circulation of the video.
According to Adeleke, the senator allegedly called for the killing of Accord Party leaders, supporters and their family members in Ilesa.
The governor said he had already reported the matter to the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, and urged the police to conduct an immediate investigation.
Adeleke argued that the allegation should not be viewed as an ordinary political dispute, describing it as a serious security concern requiring the attention of the Federal Government.
He alleged that the senator's remarks constituted an incitement against political opponents and their families and called on security agencies, including the police and the Department of State Services, to take appropriate action.
The governor said the Inspector-General of Police acknowledged the existence of the viral video and assured him that necessary steps would be taken.
Adeleke Raises Alarm Over Alleged Arrest of Accord Leaders
Adeleke also alleged that a police directive had been issued for the arrest of Accord Party leaders across Osun State, with the detained individuals allegedly to be transferred to Abuja and kept in custody until after the election.
He warned that such an operation, if confirmed, could undermine the credibility of the August 15 governorship poll.
The governor said he had raised the alleged directive with the IGP and urged the police authorities to ensure that their operations remained within the law.
He further claimed that more than 62 Accord Party leaders were already being held in police detention without charges.
Adeleke also criticised the alleged activities of the Intelligence Response Team, claiming that its operatives had arrested Accord Party members in different local government areas without sufficient justification.
He called on the police and other security agencies to uphold due process and maintain neutrality before, during and after the election.
According to the governor, the use of security agencies to target political parties or candidates would undermine democracy and public confidence in the electoral process.
He therefore appealed to the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the alleged developments and ensure that all political parties and their supporters are treated fairly.
The governor's allegations come amid heightened political tension in Osun State, with the governorship election scheduled for August 15.
The election has been preceded by accusations of political intimidation, alleged security clampdowns and concerns over the conduct of security agencies.
The allegations against Senator Fadahunsi and the claims concerning the alleged police directive could not be independently verified at the time of publication.
