…Says Perpetrators May Face Hague Action
The Presidential candidate of the Accord Party, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has warned politicians and supporters against actions capable of triggering violence during the forthcoming Osun State governorship election.
Hashim issued the warning as political activities intensify ahead of the election, urging those he described as “beating the drums of war” to consider the possible consequences of their actions.
His comments followed controversy surrounding reported remarks attributed to Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, concerning members of the Accord Party and their participation in the election.
Fadahunsi was reportedly accused of threatening members of the party with consequences if they came out to vote. The senator, however, subsequently denied making the alleged threat, with the controversy generating reactions across the country.
Reacting to the development, Hashim argued that politicians who incite violence could face serious legal consequences, including possible proceedings under international law.
The Accord Party presidential candidate said acts of incitement to political violence, particularly where they result in serious crimes, should not be treated lightly.
Hashim, who described himself as a Max Beloff 2009 Prize Winner for Global Affairs, called on Nigerian authorities to investigate the allegation against Fadahunsi and take appropriate action if wrongdoing is established.
He further argued that Nigeria’s international obligations should be taken into consideration in dealing with cases involving alleged incitement to violence.
Hashim also alleged that supporters of the Accord Party had been killed and others wounded during previous incidents of political violence. He accused some APC supporters of repeatedly making statements that could encourage violence, although these claims were not independently established in his statement.
The Accord Party candidate also called on political leaders to restrain their supporters and ensure that the election campaign does not degenerate into violence.
“We want to let everyone know that these actions would not go unpunished,” Hashim said.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Police Command has reportedly invited Senator Fadahunsi for questioning over the alleged threat.
According to the Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, the senator was invited to respond to the allegation, with the police indicating that further action could follow if he failed to honour the invitation.
The police position adds another dimension to the controversy, as security agencies intensify preparations for the governorship election and seek to prevent incidents capable of disrupting the electoral process.
With the election approaching, political parties and their supporters are facing increased calls to avoid inflammatory statements, intimidation and violence and allow voters to freely exercise their democratic rights.
The police and other security agencies are expected to maintain close monitoring of political activities and investigate allegations capable of threatening peace before, during and after the election.
