Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has sparked reactions on social media after responding to Senator Adenigba Fadahunsi’s apology over remarks that caused tension during a campaign visit to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III.

Fadahunsi had apologised for the tension generated by his comments, while insisting that he never called for violence or chaos.

In a statement, the senator said his visit to the palace was primarily to seek justice over the killing of some members of his political party and to express his pain over their deaths.

He explained that his remarks were made at a difficult moment when he was deeply affected by the loss of party members and that his intention was to demand justice rather than encourage disorder.

Fadahunsi, however, acknowledged that his comments had created tension and apologised for the misunderstanding that followed.

Fadahunsi praises Owa Haastrup

The senator also commended the Owa of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, for the manner in which he handled the situation.

Fadahunsi described the monarch as a father to all, regardless of political affiliation, saying his calm and balanced response helped prevent the situation from escalating.

He further called on political leaders to place the interests of the people above personal and political differences.

According to him, the peace of Osun State, particularly Ijesaland, was more important than any political victory or disagreement.

“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,” Fadahunsi said.

He also urged his supporters and other residents to embrace peace and work towards healing following the election.

Fadahunsi maintains demand for justice

Despite his apology, Fadahunsi said his demand for justice over the deaths of his party members remained unchanged.

He called on the Osun State Government and security agencies to properly investigate the killings and ensure that justice was achieved through lawful and peaceful means.

The senator urged all sides to put political differences aside and work towards peace and unity in the state.

Adeleke’s “Hold It There” response

Reacting to Fadahunsi’s apology, Governor Ademola Adeleke took to his X account on Wednesday with a brief but pointed response.

Using a video as a meme, the governor simply responded with a “Hold it there” reaction.

The short response quickly attracted attention online, with social media users interpreting it as a humorous or pointed reaction to the senator’s statement.

The governor’s post generated several reactions, with users praising the response and joking about the exchange between the two politicians.

Esther Rwang reacted: “Aaaa, the Governor himself don join the challenge ooo 😂😂😂😂.”

Ifedayo Jimcrux wrote: “Give handler a pay raise 😂😂.”

Mr Carter commented: “Imole Dey cook on a low.”

JT wrote: “Food ooooo. My Governor dey cook.”

Obiahu Emmanuel described the response as “the best”, adding laughing emojis.

Another user, Femi Abiodun, simply wrote: “Cook him.”

The reactions have added a lighter, social-media dimension to what had been a politically sensitive disagreement.

While Fadahunsi has now apologised for the tension surrounding his remarks, he has maintained that his demand for justice for the victims remains firm.

The senator also urged his supporters and residents of Osun State to avoid actions capable of further escalating tensions, while stressing the importance of respecting traditional institutions and maintaining peace in Ijesaland.