Osun Poll: Accord Backs Adeleke, Says Election Will Test INEC’s Readiness for 2027

The Accord Party has thrown its weight behind Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke ahead of the August 15 governorship election, describing the poll as a crucial test of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) preparedness to conduct the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Monday by its National Chairman, Barr. Maxwell Mgbudem, the party urged residents of Osun State to vote overwhelmingly for Governor Adeleke, citing what it described as his impressive performance in office and commitment to people-centred governance.

Accord said Adeleke’s administration has recorded significant achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, workers’ welfare and the provision of social amenities, insisting that the governor deserves a second term to consolidate on the progress made.

According to the party, Adeleke’s leadership has accelerated development across the state despite challenges, including the alleged withholding of local government federal allocations, which it claimed affected grassroots administration.

The party described the governor as “a man of the people” whose inclusive style of governance has improved the welfare of residents and strengthened public confidence in government.
Accord also maintained that Osun remains one of its strongholds, expressing confidence that voters would support the continuation of what it called Adeleke’s transformative leadership at the polls.

The party, however, called on INEC and security agencies to remain neutral, professional and impartial before, during and after the election to ensure the credibility of the electoral process.
It stressed that every lawful vote must count and urged all stakeholders to safeguard the sanctity of the ballot box in order to strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.

Accord also cautioned voters against vote-buying and other forms of electoral inducement, urging citizens not to compromise their future for immediate financial gains.
The party further described the Osun governorship election as a litmus test for INEC’s operational readiness ahead of the 2027 general election, calling on the electoral commission to ensure that all election materials and technologies are thoroughly tested to avoid glitches or operational failures.

“The integrity of INEC is at stake. It has another opportunity to redeem its image and justify the confidence Nigerians reposed in it,” the statement said.
Accord expressed optimism that a credible, free, fair, transparent and inclusive governorship election in Osun would further strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.