Accord Party Seeks EU Help Amid Osun Election Tensions

The Accord Party has appealed to the European Union for urgent diplomatic intervention to de-escalate political tensions ahead of the Osun State governorship election on August 15, 2026. National Chairman Chief Maxwell Mgbudem alleged a climate of intimidation and violence, reporting 29 deaths and the detention of over 60 party members in Abuja and Nasarawa State. The party specifically called for the arrest of Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi, accusing him of inciting killings in Ijesaland.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is updating ballot papers to include Social Democratic Party candidate Dr. Francis Ajala and his running mate, Faseke Oladipo, following a Federal High Court order. This adjustment brings the total number of contesting parties to 15, though the race is largely viewed as a three-way battle between incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, and Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress.

Public scrutiny of the candidates intensified following a town hall debate. Arise Television anchor Rufai Oseni criticized the participants' performances as lacklustre, claiming a general absence of bright ideas. Oseni noted that Governor Adeleke focused on defending past achievements, such as a 350-kilometre road, rather than presenting a future vision. Only the Peoples Redemption Party candidate was praised for providing a detailed healthcare plan.