The Osun State Police Commissioner for Election, Samuel Etaifo, has warned politicians and their supporters against making inflammatory statements or engaging in acts capable of causing violence ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.
The warning comes after the police invited Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, over alleged inciteful comments against members of the Accord Party during an APC campaign in Ilesa on Tuesday.
In a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the police commissioner urged political leaders to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could heighten tension in the state.
“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,” Etaifo said.
The commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to neutrality, professionalism and the protection of democratic values.
He warned that the police would not tolerate any act, statement or conduct capable of inciting violence, disrupting public peace or threatening the security of Osun State.
Police Explain Fadahunsi’s Invitation
Etaifo said Fadahunsi was invited to clarify the statement attributed to him and help promote peace ahead of the election.
“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,” he said.
The police commissioner stressed that the invitation should not be interpreted as intimidation, describing it instead as a proactive step to prevent tensions from escalating.
He said the police remained committed to ensuring a peaceful, free, fair and credible governorship election in Osun State.
Etaifo also called on political actors, their supporters and members of the public to remain law-abiding, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and address grievances through lawful channels.
