Amnesty: Fadahunsi’s Osun election remarks must not go unpunished

Amnesty International Nigeria intends to pursue accountability for remarks made by Senator Francis Fadahunsi in connection with the upcoming Osun State gubernatorial election on August 15th. Isa Sanusi, the Country Director for Amnesty International Nigeria, addressed the issue on Channels Television's Sunrise Daily, stating that the organization will use Fadahunsi's case to illustrate the importance of holding political figures accountable for statements that may incite violence during elections.

During the interview, Sanusi cited a video showing Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East as an All Progressives Congress (APC) senator, making inflammatory comments such as "kill them wherever you find them."

Sanusi emphasized that this particular incident stands out as particularly egregious among numerous politicians who have made similarly irresponsible statements in the past, leading to a police summoning of Fadahunsi on Tuesday. On Wednesday, the senator endured a two-hour interrogation by the Osun State Police Command. Amnesty International plans to advocate for accountability both domestically and internationally, aiming to send a clear message that impunity for violent rhetoric among Nigerian politicians cannot persist.

The organization contends that incitement to hatred and violence is a violation of both Nigerian law and international human rights standards. Sanusi stated that he believes the individual responsible for these remarks should not enjoy any peace, as advocacy of hatred is considered a crime under international law and Nigerian law as well.

Amnesty International Nigeria previously condemned the remarks attributed to Fadahunsi, asserting that authorities have a duty to prevent advocacy of hatred that incites hostility, discrimination, or violence. They labeled the comments reckless and warned that they could exacerbate tensions leading up to the Osun governorship election. The organization reiterated that Senator Fadahunsi must be held accountable for his inflammatory rhetoric.