Senator Adenigba Fadahunsi, OFR, has expressed regret for the tension that followed comments he made during a visit to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III.
Speaking after the Osun State governorship election ended, Fadahunsi said the purpose of his visit to the palace was to seek justice and to voice his grief over the killing of some members of his political party.
He noted that it was hurtful for his emotional appeal to later be twisted by critics into an alleged call for violence.
The senator insisted he never asked for chaos or bloodshed, and described the backlash as unjust.
According to him, the remarks came at a painful time when he was still processing the loss of party members.
Fadahunsi also gave special thanks to the Owa of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, for how he managed the situation.
He lauded the monarch for exercising wisdom and keeping his composure, even amid accusations that the senator’s comments were disrespectful to the traditional institution.
The lawmaker said the Owa acted like a true father to everyone, irrespective of party affiliation.
He added that the monarch’s calm and measured response helped stop the matter from escalating.
Fadahunsi stressed that leaders should put the welfare of the people ahead of personal emotions and political rivalries.
He said the peace of Osun State and Ijesaland matters more than any election win, loss, or disagreement.
“Since the peace of Osun State and especially Ijesaland is far more important than any political dispute, victory, or defeat, I sincerely apologise for the tension caused by this misunderstanding,” the senator stated.
He also urged his supporters and other residents to choose peace and to focus on healing in the aftermath of the election.
Fadahunsi called on the public to respect the role of traditional rulers in fostering peace and unity in Ijesaland.
He however maintained that his demand for justice over the deaths of his party members has not changed.
The senator called on the Osun State Government and security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the killings and ensure justice is served through legal and peaceful means.
He appealed to all parties to set aside political differences and work together for peace and unity across the state.
Fadahunsi said he will keep pushing for justice for the victims, while also encouraging supporters and citizens to avoid anything that could stir more tension.
