A faction within the Accord Party has held a parallel primary election, producing Mr. Clement Bamigbola as its candidate for the 2026 Osun State governorship race. This development follows the declaration, just four days earlier, of Governor Ademola Adeleke as the party’s flagbearer in a separate primary conducted under the leadership of Maxwell Mgbudem.
The earlier primary, overseen by Mgbudem, resulted in Adeleke’s nomination. However, a segment of the party rejected that outcome, arguing that Mgbudem is not the legally recognized national chairman of the Accord Party. Consequently, the dissenting faction organized its own primary. On Sunday, about 300 Accord Party delegates from across Osun State convened at Regina Suite in Osogbo and, through a voice vote, selected Bamigbola as the factional candidate. Hon. Olufemi Ogundare, Chairman of the Primary Committee, formally announced Bamigbola as the party’s candidate for the 2026 governorship election.
The emergence of two candidates from the same party has created a complex situation, with both Adeleke and Bamigbola claiming legitimacy as the Accord Party’s flagbearer. The internal conflict stems from a dispute over party leadership, with some members recognizing Mgbudem as national chairman and others rejecting his claim.
The 2026 Osun State governorship election is expected to be highly contested, featuring several parties and candidates. The Accord Party’s internal crisis could affect its electoral prospects, as unity and cohesion are essential for garnering voter support. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will need to clarify which candidate is the official flagbearer, a decision crucial for resolving the dispute and ensuring a smooth electoral process. As the election approaches, the party’s ability to settle its differences will attract close scrutiny.
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