The Accord party has issued a stern warning regarding the ongoing harassment and detention of its officials and supporters in Osun State. According to the party, the current environment feels more like a conflict zone than a state preparing for an upcoming election. They have demanded the immediate release of all detained members and the dismissal of Ibrahim Gotan, the Commissioner of Police in the state.
National Chairman Maxwell Mgbudem claims that the All Progressives Congress, working alongside state police and associated groups, is actively trying to sabotage the gubernatorial election scheduled for August 15. The party alleges that while they have previously reported violent attacks on their campaign offices and supporters to law enforcement, those reports have been ignored. They view the recent arrest of roughly 100 party leaders—some of whom were transported to Abuja—as a politically motivated effort to weaken their influence.
Furthermore, Accord criticized police for raiding the homes of six government commissioners and the Secretary to the State Government using aggressive, unprofessional tactics. They argue that this behavior exposes a clear bias within the state police force, which they believe is being used to exert federal influence on behalf of the opposition. The party has reached out to President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, and the Inspector General of Police to intervene and ensure a fair electoral process.
Despite the pressure, Accord insists that their supporters will remain calm and continue to back Governor Ademola Adeleke. They contend that the voters’ resolve remains strong and that the ballot will ultimately prove more powerful than the intimidation tactics currently being employed.
