Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (retd.), has called for the arrest of politicians and other individuals who make statements capable of inciting violence. Irabor made the call on Thursday while speaking on Channels Television. His comments followed a viral video involving Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East. In the video, Fadahunsi allegedly told his supporters to kill members of the Accord Party ahead of the Osun governorship election.
Irabor Backs Police Action Against Fadahunsi
Reacting to the development, Irabor said authorities should act quickly against people whose statements could trigger violence. He also backed the police invitation of Fadahunsi, saying the senator should face further questioning over the alleged remarks.
“For me as a person, any time we hear individuals making inciting comments, I think that such people should be picked up immediately,” Irabor said.
The former CDS described Fadahunsi’s comments as more than political rhetoric, saying they bordered on incitement to violence. He added that the police had taken the right step by inviting the senator.
Irabor Demands Action Against Jingir, Gumi
Irabor also called for action against Islamic clerics Sani Jingir and Ahmad Gumi over comments he described as inciting. He said Jingir’s remarks could add to the security threats facing the country and urged the authorities to respond.
“Added to that is of course the Sheikh in Kano, Sheikh Jingir, who also made some comments which of course I believe are also inciting,” he said.
On Gumi, Irabor said authorities should also question the cleric over his public comments.
“I also believe that the various comments that someone like Gumi has been making also demands that he be called not just to order,” the former service chief said.
He further argued that the law should apply to everyone, regardless of their position or influence.
Irabor Warns Against Inciting Statements
The former defence chief stressed the need for authorities to take inciting statements seriously, particularly during periods of heightened political tension. According to him, allowing such comments to go unchecked could increase the risk of violence.
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