Accord Party Calls for International Intervention Ahead of Osun Governorship Election

Ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, the Accord party has called on international bodies and foreign governments including the African Union, United Nations, European Union, United States, and United Kingdom to intervene and monitor the security situation in the state.

In a statement issued by Dele Oladeji, Secretary of the South-West Forum of Accord and Lagos State Chairman, the party raised concerns over an alleged pattern of political violence, targeted arrests, and intimidation aimed at undermining the electoral process.

Oladeji stated that political violence had escalated since electioneering began, claiming that party members, state officials, and relatives of the governor had been targeted. He cited incidents resulting in injuries and fatalities, including the death of a 14-year-old boy, and criticized security agencies for a lack of visible arrests or prosecutions following these attacks.

The party specifically pointed to the recent detention of the Secretary to the Osun State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, on July 29 over vote-buying allegations. Although Igbalaye was subsequently released, Accord characterized the arrest as politically motivated and unfounded given the pre-election timeframe.

Furthermore, Accord alleged that 61 of its members remain in police custody in the Federal Capital Territory without formal charges, court arraignments, or warrants presented.

The statement expressed concern over potential security agency bias, warning that the perceived partisanship of security apparatuses could compromise democratic norms and voter turnout. Accord urged the Nigeria Police Force to maintain neutrality and called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a transparent and impartial election.