Accord Rejects De-registration Claims

The leadership of Accord Party has dismissed claims that it risks de-registration, insisting it fully complies with constitutional requirements and remains an active political force in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.

In a press statement issued yesterday from its national secretariat in Abuja, the party said there is “no basis whatsoever” for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to consider removing it from the register of political parties.

Accord argued that it satisfied the provisions of Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution, which outline the conditions under which political parties may be deregistered. According to the party, it has recorded electoral victories that meet the minimum thresholds required by law.

The party highlighted its performance in local elections in Jigawa State, where it won two councillorship seats. It is named Hon. Zahairu Usman, who secured victory in Ajaura Ward, Taura local government area, and Hon. Isa Alhaji, who won in Kanwa Ward, Jahun local government area, in polls conducted on 5th October, 2024.

Accord also referenced its participation in the 2023 general elections, noting that it won a seat in the Imo State House of Assembly. However, the party said the victory of its candidate, Vitalis Azodo, in Ideato South constituency was later nullified by an election tribunal despite the issuance of a certificate of return by INEC.

Beyond electoral victories, the party emphasised its current political strength, claiming it has one governor, one senator, six members of the House of Representatives, 24 members of state Houses of Assembly—particularly in Osun State—and two councillors across the country.

The party also pointed to recent defections as evidence of its growing influence, including the alignment of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke with Accord, alongside other federal and state lawmakers.

Accord accused unnamed former lawmakers of filing a suit seeking the de-registration of political parties, describing the move as politically motivated and based on “ignorance or mischief.” It further criticised the position reportedly taken by the Attorney General of the Federation, who is said to have supported the plaintiffs’ demand for de-registration.

The party described such a stance as “extremely partisan” and a threat to democratic norms, arguing that due diligence would have revealed its compliance with electoral laws, including verified election results from the Jigawa State Independent Electoral Commission.

It also disclosed that INEC recently conducted its annual verification exercise at the party’s national headquarters, reaffirming its eligibility to operate under existing regulations.

Reassuring its members and supporters, Accord urged Nigerians to disregard what it termed “rumours” of de-registration, maintaining that it remains firmly rooted in the country’s democratic framework.

The party declared its readiness for future elections and called on citizens to align with its platform, which it described as a vehicle for national unity, economic prosperity, and political stability.