Accord Party Appeals to EU, ECOWAS Over Election Violence

The Accord party, led by National Chairman Maxwell Mgbudem, has formally appealed to the European Union (EU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for urgent intervention to address escalating political violence ahead of the governorship election in Osun scheduled for Saturday. Mgbudem disclosed that a letter dated August 12 was sent to both EU and ECOWAS delegations, highlighting the alarming political climate characterized by intimidation and violence against Accord members, which could undermine the election's credibility.

He reported at least 29 fatalities and numerous injuries, alongside the detention of over 60 Accord members in Abuja and Nasarawa State. Mgbudem also referenced a viral video in which a sitting Senator allegedly ordered violence against Accord members.

He expressed concerns regarding the impartiality of federal law enforcement agencies and criticized the controversial freezing of Osun government bank accounts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which was later reversed after public backlash and presidential intervention.