Accord Petitions EU, ECOWAS Over Rising Violence Ahead of Osun Governorship Election

Nigeria's Accord Party has appealed to the European Union (EU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to urgently intervene and de-escalate rising political tensions before Saturday's governorship election in Osun State. The party's National Chairman, Maxwell Mgbudem, conveyed this plea in Abuja, stating that a formal letter dated August 12 was sent to both the EU delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS.

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The situation has been further inflamed by the detention of more than 60 Accord members and supporters across Abuja and Nasarawa State, alongside threats of violence from prominent political figures.

Mgbudem described the upcoming election as a critical test for Nigeria's democratic progress and a precursor to the 2027 general elections. He expressed grave concern over the reported intimidation and violence targeting Accord members, which he believes could jeopardize the election's credibility. According to data cited in the petition, the political climate has become intensely volatile, resulting in at least 29 reported deaths and numerous gunshot injuries.

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More worrisome is the viral video where a sitting Senator ordered that Accord members should be killed wherever they are cited.

Adding to the party's distress, Mgbudem highlighted the detention of over 60 Accord members and supporters in Abuja and Nasarawa State, alongside threats from prominent political figures. He specifically pointed to a viral video where a sitting senator allegedly ordered the killing of Accord members. The petition also questions the impartial deployment of federal law enforcement and regulatory agencies, referencing the controversial freezing of Osun state government bank accounts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which was later reversed.

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Our concern, therefore, is not to obstruct any lawful investigation or enforcement action, but to ensure that legitimate state powers are not deployed in a manner to intimidate political opponents, restricts lawful political participation or creates an uneven electoral playing field.

While respecting the mandates of anti-corruption and law enforcement bodies, the Accord Party cautioned against the "weaponization of state power." Mgbudem stressed that the party does not seek to obstruct lawful investigations but aims to prevent the misuse of state authority to intimidate opponents, restrict political participation, or create an uneven playing field. The party urged the EU to leverage its diplomatic influence to advocate for strict neutrality from security agencies, independent oversight by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and a secure environment conducive to a free, fair, and transparent vote.

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Our appeal is for the protection of democratic principles, the rule of law, political pluralism and the fundamental right of the people of Osun to freely choose their leaders.