By John Dike, Osogbo
The Commissioner of Police in charge of the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election, CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, has condemned what he described as an inciting statement allegedly made by Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi and invited the lawmaker to provide clarification in the interest of peace and security ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.
The invitation followed public concerns generated by remarks attributed to the senator representing Osun East Senatorial District, which the police said had heightened apprehension among stakeholders and members of the public.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the Election Commissioner of Police said political leaders and public office holders have a responsibility to promote peace and avoid statements capable of escalating tension at the critical stage of the electoral process.
According to the statement, the police are concerned that comments capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral and security arrangements could threaten the peaceful conduct of the August 15 governorship election.
CP Etaifo reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to neutrality, professionalism and the protection of democratic values throughout the electoral process.
He stressed 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.
Consequently, the Commissioner of Police invited Senator Fadahunsi to clarify the statement attributed to him and to foster mutual understanding in the overall interest of peace and security.
The police, however, emphasised that the invitation should not be interpreted as an act of intimidation or political persecution.
Rather, the command explained that it formed part of proactive measures aimed at preventing the escalation of political tension and ensuring a peaceful, free, fair and credible governorship election.
The Election Commissioner of Police also appealed to political parties, candidates, their supporters and members of the public to remain law-abiding throughout the election period.
He urged political actors to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and to channel any grievances through lawful and constitutional means.
“The invitation should not be misconstrued as an act of intimidation, but rather as part of proactive measures aimed at preventing the escalation of tensions and ensuring a peaceful, free, fair and credible governorship election in Osun State,” the statement said.
The command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order before, during and after the governorship election, while calling on all stakeholders to place the peace, security and stability of Osun State above partisan and political interests.
