Osun Election: Accord Party Alleges 29 Deaths, Seeks EU Intervention

The Accord Party has formally requested the European Union's intervention in the upcoming Osun State governorship election, citing a severely deteriorated political atmosphere. In a letter dated August 12, 2026, addressed to the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, the party's National Chairman, Maxwell Mgbudem, alleged widespread violence, arrests, and intimidation.

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The timing, manner and perceived selectivity of actions by public institutions during an election period are capable of undermining public confidence if they are not demonstrably impartial, transparent and consistent with due process.

Mgbudem claimed that at least 29 individuals have died in politically linked incidents, with many others injured. He also reported the arrest and detention of over 60 Accord Party members in Abuja and Nasarawa states. The party expressed concern over the "selective deployment" of federal law enforcement agencies, arguing that such actions, if not impartial and transparent, could undermine public confidence during the election period.

The Accord Party further alleged that its members have faced attacks and harassment, referencing a viral video where Senator Francis Fadahunsi reportedly called for Accord members to be killed, a claim the senator has denied. The party implored the EU to use its diplomatic channels to encourage Nigerian authorities to ensure a level playing field for all political parties.

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It is against this background that we respectfully appeal to the European Union delegation to consider using its good offices and diplomatic influence to encourage the immediate de-escalation of the political situation in Osun State.

Specifically, Accord asked the EU to publicly support a free, fair, transparent, and peaceful election, with the outcome determined solely by the electorate's votes. The party emphasized the importance of "preventive diplomacy," suggesting that early international engagement could help de-escalate the political tensions in Osun State.

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Specifically, we respectfully request that the European Union publicly reaffirm the importance of a free, fair, transparent, credible, and peaceful election in Osun State, with the outcome determined solely by the freely expressed will of the electorate.