Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District, has apologised for the tension generated by his controversial remarks during a campaign visit to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III.

Fadahunsi, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), offered the apology after the conclusion of the Osun State governorship election, explaining that his remarks were made at a difficult period when he was deeply affected by the killing of some members of his political party.

The senator said his visit to the monarch was primarily to seek justice and express his pain over the deaths, maintaining that his emotional appeal was subsequently portrayed by his critics as a call for violence.

He insisted that he never intended to encourage violence or disorder, describing the interpretation of his comments as unfair.

Fadahunsi had attracted widespread condemnation after he was captured in a video clip directing APC supporters to attack members of the rival Accord Party during the electoral process.

“From now on, whenever you see Accord members, kill them. They have wives and children too,” he was captured saying.

Following the backlash, the Osun State Police Command invited the senator for questioning.

He later appeared before the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Osogbo and was granted bail after interrogation.

The controversy also resulted in legal action, with the Osun State Attorney-General filing a suit before the Osun State High Court in Osogbo, seeking an order compelling the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioner of Police in Osun State to investigate the death threat.

While the IGP and the Osun Commissioner of Police were listed as respondents, Fadahunsi was named as a person affected or interested in the matter.

In his latest statement, the senator expressed appreciation to the Owa of Ijesaland for the manner in which he handled the controversy.

He praised the monarch for remaining calm and balanced despite allegations that his remarks had disrespected the traditional institution, saying the Owa demonstrated the qualities of a father to all, irrespective of political affiliation.

According to him, the monarch's response helped prevent the controversy from escalating.

Fadahunsi also appealed to political leaders and residents of the state to prioritise peace and reconciliation following the election.

He stressed that the interests of the people should take precedence over personal sentiments and political differences.

“Because the peace of Osun State and Ijesaland in particular is far more important than any political dispute, victory, or defeat, I sincerely apologise for the tension that resulted from this misunderstanding,” the senator said.

He urged his supporters and other residents to embrace peace while respecting the traditional institution's role in maintaining peace and unity in Ijesaland.

The senator, however, maintained that his demand for justice over the deaths of his party members remained unchanged.

He called on the Osun State Government and security agencies to thoroughly investigate the reported killings and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice through lawful and peaceful means.

Fadahunsi said he would continue to seek justice for the victims while urging all parties to put political differences aside and refrain from actions capable of creating further tension in the state.