CITIZENS COMPASS—An Osun State-born senator who issued death threats to members of the Accord Party in the State has apologised for the hate speech.
Recall that the hate speech by the senator, Adenigba Fadahunsi, generated tension before and during the just concluded Gubernatorial election in the State.
Fadahunsi, a senator with the All Progressives Congress (APC) made the hate speech while the state was preparing for the Gubernatorial election on Saturday, August 15, 2026 where the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, was re-elected.
He tendered the apology during a visit to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III.
Fadahunsi said his visit to the monarch ahead of the Osun State governorship election was primarily to seek justice over the deaths of some members of his political party.
In comments that subsequently turned viral the lawmaker was quoted as telling his supporters to kill members of Accord and their family members. On election day, the senator was also seen at a polling unit allegedly telling his supporters to ensure that those not voting for APC were disallowed from voting.
Responding to the nationwide outrage over his remarks, the senator said he was deeply affected by the killings and spoke out of emotion while appealing for justice. He, however, said his remarks were later interpreted by critics as a call for violence.
Fadahunsi maintained that he never called for chaos or violence, describing the criticism against him as unfair.
He said he regretted the tension that followed his comments and apologised for any misunderstanding arising from his remarks.
“Because the peace of Osun State and Ijesaland in particular is far more important than any political dispute, victory, or defeat, I sincerely apologise for the tension that resulted from this misunderstanding,” he said.
The senator also expressed appreciation to the Owa of Ijesaland for the way he handled the situation, describing the monarch’s response as calm, balanced and fatherly.
He praised Owa Haastrup for remaining composed despite claims that his remarks had been disrespectful to the traditional institution.
Fadahunsi said the monarch demonstrated the qualities of a father to all, irrespective of political affiliation, adding that his response helped prevent the situation from escalating.
The senator stressed that political leaders must always place the interests of the people above personal emotions and political differences.
He said the peace of Osun State, particularly Ijesaland, was more important than any political victory, defeat or disagreement.
Fadahunsi also appealed to his supporters and other residents of the state to embrace peace and contribute to the healing process following the governorship election.
He urged residents to respect traditional institutions and their role in promoting peace and unity across Ijesaland.
While apologising for the tension caused by the misunderstanding, the senator said his demand for justice over the deaths of his party members remained unchanged.
He called on the Osun State Government and security agencies to thoroughly investigate the killings and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice through lawful and peaceful means.
Fadahunsi urged all parties to put political differences aside and work towards restoring peace and unity in the state.
He added that he would continue to seek justice for the victims while urging his supporters and other citizens to avoid actions or statements capable of further heightening tension.
—GWG
