Accord seeks EU intervention over Osun election tensions
The Accord Party has urged the European Union (EU) to intervene diplomatically in the political situation in Osun State ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, alleging violence, intimidation and the arrest of its members.
The party made the appeal in a letter dated August 12, 2026, addressed to Gautier Migot, Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS.
The Accord Party has urged the European Union (EU) to intervene diplomatically in the political situation in Osun State ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, alleging violence, intimidation and the arrest of its members.
The party made the appeal in a letter dated August 12, 2026, addressed to Gautier Migot, Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS.
Signed by the party’s National Chairman, Maxwell Mgbudem, the letter alleged that political tensions had escalated in the state, with at least 29 people reportedly killed in incidents linked to the election.
Mgbudem also alleged that more than 60 Accord members and supporters had been arrested and detained in Abuja and Nasarawa State.
He raised concerns over what he described as the selective deployment of federal law enforcement and regulatory agencies during the election period.
The Accord chairman said the party did not oppose legitimate investigations or lawful enforcement but questioned the timing and manner of the alleged actions.
He said such actions, if perceived as selective, could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
Mgbudem further alleged that Accord members had been subjected to attacks, harassment and intimidation.
He cited a viral video in which Senator Francis Fadahunsi was allegedly heard calling for Accord members to be killed wherever they were found. Fadahunsi has previously denied the allegation.
Against this backdrop, Mgbudem appealed to the EU to use its diplomatic influence to encourage Nigerian authorities to protect the rights of all political parties and ensure a level playing field.
He also urged the EU to publicly support a free, fair, transparent, credible and peaceful election, with the result determined by the will of the electorate.
Mgbudem said early diplomatic engagement would help de-escalate tensions and prevent further violence before the election.
He added that timely intervention by the EU would reinforce the need for political competition to remain peaceful and guided by the rule of law.
