The Osun State chapter of the Accord Party has condemned a call by Nigerian lawmaker Wole Oke to deregister the party. Oke, a member of the House of Representatives, allegedly made the request on social media, arguing that the party’s lack of elected officials justified its removal from the register.
In response, Accord Party’s Osun State Chairman Pastor Victor Akande issued a statement describing Oke’s move as a calculated attempt to mislead the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and to prevent Governor Ademola Adeleke from contesting the 2026 Osun governorship election on the party’s platform. Akande asserted that the party has complied with all constitutional and statutory requirements under the Electoral Act and has consistently participated in elections across Nigeria. He dismissed the deregistration claims as unfounded and misleading, urging members and supporters to remain calm and focused. According to Akande, the Accord Party remains a fully registered political party with a strong national presence.
Oke’s call for deregistration was based on Sections 225A and 84(16) of the Electoral Act 2022, which empower INEC to deregister parties for non‑performance. The Accord Party, however, maintains that it has met and exceeded the conditions required of registered political parties. The controversy has sparked reactions from various political groups, many of which view Oke’s initiative as a political maneuver.
The Accord Party has asked Oke to desist from associating the party with controversy and to concentrate on his legislative duties. As the debate continues, Akande reaffirmed the party’s legal status, stating that it remains “solidly registered, legally grounded, and firmly rooted among the people.” The party’s response aims to reassure supporters and preserve stability ahead of the 2026 elections. With INEC yet to respond to Oke’s request, the issue remains a focal point in Nigerian politics.
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