By Gabriel Ameh
ABUJA, August 13, 2026 — The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for the immediate suspension, arrest and investigation of Senator Francis Fadahunsi, following allegations that he incited supporters to attack members of the Accord Party ahead of Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.
The Commission’s demand followed the circulation of a video in which a person identified as the Senator was allegedly heard making statements that the NHRC said could amount to incitement to murder, electoral violence and voter intimidation.
In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Chief Tony Ojukwu, SAN, the NHRC urged the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the allegations and, where appropriate, prosecute the lawmaker in accordance with the law.
The Commission also called on the leadership of the National Assembly to suspend Fadahunsi from his Senate duties pending the outcome of investigations.
The NHRC said the alleged remarks, if established, were serious enough to require urgent action by law enforcement authorities before the election.
It warned that inflammatory statements by political actors could heighten tensions and expose voters and political supporters to violence during the electoral process.
The Commission stressed that the allegations must be subjected to due process and proper investigation, while urging security agencies to act proactively to prevent violence rather than wait for casualties to occur.
The NHRC also appealed to residents of Osun State to remain peaceful and report threats or incidents of violence to relevant authorities.
The Commission said it had established a situation room to receive and document human rights-related incidents during the election period.
Adeyanju Seeks US, UK Visa Ban
The NHRC’s call came as human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju separately petitioned the United States government and the British High Commission over the allegations involving Senator Fadahunsi.
Adeyanju urged both governments to consider imposing visa restrictions on the senator and members of his family over actions he said could undermine Nigeria’s democratic and electoral processes.
He also called for consideration of measures targeting the assets and business interests of Nigerians found to be actively undermining the country’s constitutional democracy.
Adeyanju argued that international partners should send a strong message against political conduct capable of threatening democratic institutions, the rule of law and the safety of citizens.
The developments come just days before the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election, placing renewed focus on calls for political actors and their supporters to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and uphold peaceful participation.
The allegations against Senator Fadahunsi remain subject to investigation and due process.
