Senator Francis Fadahunsi has clarified his controversial “kill Accord” remark ahead of the August 15 Osun State governorship election, insisting that he was referring to defeating the political party with votes rather than violence.
Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District, came under criticism after a video circulated in which he appeared to direct supporters to “kill” members of the Accord Party.
The statement generated concern because of the tense political atmosphere surrounding the Osun governorship election.
Fadahunsi has now explained that his use of the word “kill” was political language and was intended to mean defeating Accord at the ballot box.
“I meant ‘kill Accord’ with votes, not violence,” the senator said in his clarification.
The controversy comes at a sensitive moment in Osun, where political parties have been engaged in intense campaigns ahead of the election.
The Adeleke campaign has criticised Fadahunsi’s original remarks, arguing that inflammatory language could heighten tensions and threaten peaceful participation in the electoral process.
The controversy has also attracted wider public attention because election-related violence remains a major concern among political stakeholders and civil society groups.
Fadahunsi’s clarification seeks to draw a distinction between political rhetoric and an actual call for violence against supporters of an opposing party.
However, the initial remarks have continued to generate reactions online and within political circles.
The August 15 election is expected to feature a closely contested battle between the incumbent administration and the opposition parties seeking to take control of Osun State.
Security agencies have also increased preparations for the poll, with authorities repeatedly warning politicians and their supporters against acts capable of disrupting the election.
The senator’s clarification is therefore likely to be viewed against the broader call for political actors to moderate their language and encourage peaceful participation.
With voting day approaching, political parties and candidates are expected to make their final appeals to voters while security agencies maintain heightened readiness across the state.