Accord Party Alleges Police Harassment Ahead of Election

The Accord Party has raised concerns about police harassment targeting its leaders, members, and government officials in Osun State as the August 15, 2026 governorship election approaches. Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem, the party’s National Chairman, described the actions of the Osun state police command as an "assault on Nigeria’s democracy" and called for the immediate release of approximately 100 detained members.

The party also demanded the removal of Osun state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, alleging partisanship in handling election-related security matters. Mgbudem condemned the alleged "Gestapo-style operations" where police raided the residences of six commissioners and the Secretary to the State Government.

He claimed that despite reporting attacks on party members and destruction of campaign materials by suspected APC thugs, no action was taken against the perpetrators. The Accord Party urged President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, and the Inspector-General of Police to ensure a fair electoral environment, emphasizing the need for a peaceful election free from intimidation.