Osun Election: Hashim warns against violence, calls for peaceful election

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Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim

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OSOGBO — The presidential candidate of the Accord Party, Dr Gbenga Hashim, has warned political actors and supporters against inciting violence ahead of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday.

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Hashim, in a statement, said those making inflammatory statements or encouraging violence could face legal consequences, urging all stakeholders to allow voters to exercise their franchise peacefully.

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His warning followed reports of a comment allegedly made by Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, concerning members of the Accord Party ahead of the election.

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Although Fadahunsi has reportedly denied making the statement attributed to him, the comment generated reactions across the country.

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Hashim described alleged calls for violence during elections as unacceptable, stressing that political differences should not be allowed to threaten lives or undermine the electoral process.

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He said relevant security and law enforcement agencies should investigate any allegation of incitement and take appropriate action where wrongdoing is established.

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Hashim also urged political leaders, candidates and their supporters to exercise restraint and avoid statements capable of escalating tension in the state.

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“We want to let everyone know that these actions would not go unpunished,” he said.

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He further alleged that some Accord supporters had been victims of violence, adding that the party would continue to pursue lawful avenues to protect its members and supporters.

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Meanwhile, the Osun State Police Command has invited Fadahunsi for questioning over the alleged comment.

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The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, according to Hashim’s statement, said the senator had been invited and that the command would take further steps if he failed to honour the invitation.

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The development comes as political parties intensify campaigns and mobilisation ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, with security agencies expected to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of voters and electoral officials.

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