Amnesty International targets Fadahunsi over Osun election rhetoric

Amnesty International Nigeria has initiated action against Senator Francis Fadahunsi over statements made during campaigning for the Osun State governorship election. The organisation launched an online petition demanding accountability after a video circulated showing Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East in the Senate, making remarks that the group characterised as inciting violence.

Amnesty's Country Director, Isa Sanusi, said the case would be used as an example to demonstrate that inflammatory political speech must face consequences. Fadahunsi, an All Progressives Congress member, denied that his comments constituted a call for physical harm.

The senator explained that his remarks were metaphorical, specifically referring to using votes to neutralise the Accord Party, which supports incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke. He emphasised that his message was about peaceful electoral participation rather than violence.

Amnesty International has vowed to escalate its response beyond domestic borders. Sanusi told broadcast media that the organisation, which operates across approximately 150 countries, intends to launch an international campaign highlighting the senator's statements.

Police authorities have also summoned Fadahunsi for questioning regarding the remarks, according to reporting from the Nigerian Tribune. The controversy emerged ahead of the August 15, 2026, Osun gubernatorial contest.

Amnesty's petition calls for legal action against the senator, framing the matter as part of a broader effort to combat political violence during electoral periods. The organisation stated that political figures must be held answerable for statements that could contribute to violence during elections.