With just days to the Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026, the Accord Party has formally petitioned the European Union (EU), urging urgent intervention to safeguard the credibility and peaceful conduct of the poll.

In a letter signed by its National Chairman, Chief Maxwell Mgbudem, Accord expressed alarm over what it described as escalating violence, intimidation, and partisan use of state institutions in the build-up to the election.

“The election is of considerable importance to Nigeria’s democratic development, coming at a critical period in the nation’s electoral cycle,” the letter stated, warning that its credibility will shape public confidence ahead of the 2027 General Election.

According to Accord, at least 29 people have lost their lives in politically linked incidents, while dozens have sustained gunshot injuries. 

The party also alleged that more than 60 of its members were arrested in Abuja and Nasarawa under questionable circumstances.

The petition highlighted concerns over federal agencies’ involvement in actions perceived as politically selective, including the freezing of Osun State Government accounts by the EFCC, later reversed by presidential directive, and the arrest of senior state officials.

Accord further condemned a viral video in which a sitting senator allegedly ordered that its members be killed, describing such rhetoric as dangerous and capable of undermining democratic participation.

The party urged the EU to:Reaffirm free and fair elections in Osun State.Encourage political neutrality among security agencies and public institutions.

Support credible election monitoring by domestic and international observers.Promote accountability for individuals involved in electoral violence or intimidation.

Accord stressed that its appeal was not for partisan support but for the protection of democratic principles, urging preventive diplomacy before tensions spiral further.

“The Osun Governorship Election is more than a contest for office; it is a test of Nigeria’s ability to conduct elections where institutions remain neutral, citizens vote freely, and outcomes reflect the will of the people,” the party emphasized.

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