House of Representatives Group Demands Probe into Osun Election Violence and Viral Video

A bipartisan group of members of the House of Representatives, operating under the banner of the Save Democracy Group, has called for a comprehensive investigation into the violent incidents and reported fatalities surrounding the Osun State governorship election.

In a statement issued in Abuja, representatives Awaji-Inombek Abiante, Abubakar Kusada, and Mansur Jega emphasized that political competition must not serve as a justification for the loss of life. They urged the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the National Human Rights Commission to investigate all incidents of election-related violence and hold perpetrators accountable.

The lawmakers specifically highlighted a viral video allegedly featuring Senator Francis Fadahunsi making comments interpreted as encouraging attacks on members of the Accord Party in Ilesa. Although Senator Fadahunsi has denied inciting violence, the lawmakers stated that relevant security and legal authorities must independently examine the video and its context to determine if any laws were breached.

The group also raised concerns regarding national security deployment strategies. While acknowledging the need for election security, they questioned the high concentration of personnel in Osun State compared to regions facing persistent security challenges, citing recent deadly attacks on security forces and civilians in Kebbi and Sokoto states. The lawmakers called on the Federal Government to publish the security assessment framework used for the Osun election to ensure transparency in resource distribution.

Additionally, the group urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct a thorough post-election review to address administrative, technological, and logistical vulnerabilities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

To address mounting national security concerns and legislative matters, the group called on the leadership of the National Assembly to immediately reconvene both chambers for an emergency session.