The Accord Party has formally appealed to the European Union (EU) for immediate diplomatic intervention to alleviate escalating political tensions in Osun State. This request is aimed at ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful governorship election set for August 15, 2026.
The appeal, made in a letter addressed to the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, outlines concerns over allegations of electoral violence and intimidation. Accord leaders note that the upcoming election is crucial as it represents the last major governorship election before the 2027 general elections, with potential implications for public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic processes.
According to the Accord Party, the political climate in Osun has become increasingly hostile, marked by reports of violence, arrests, and harassment. The party claims that 29 individuals have died in incidents related to the political climate, while over 60 of its members have been detained under suspicious circumstances.
The party also noted troubling developments involving the search and detention of senior state officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, and the freezing of state bank accounts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Although these officials were later released and accounts unfrozen, the situation has intensified fears regarding the impartiality of state institutions.
Accord is also pressing for the swift arrest of Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi, who allegedly made inciting comments directing violence against Accord members. They seek thorough investigations into these remarks, which they argue exacerbate existing tensions as the election approaches.
In a related response, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the upcoming elections, condemned Fadahunsi’s comments and called for a retraction. Obi emphasized the importance of peaceful democratic practices and the duty of political leaders to uphold unity and respect among constituents.
Accord’s appeal extends beyond the EU to include calls for monitoring by various international and regional organizations, aiming to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process. The party insists that diplomacy and vigilance are necessary to prevent potentially irreversible damage to Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The Accord Party concluded its appeal by urging all stakeholders to respect the will of the people of Osun State and maintain a peaceful electoral environment, emphasizing that this election will serve as a significant test for democratic governance in Nigeria.
