OSUN STATE, NIGERIA — The Accord Party is gaining significant momentum in Osun State as the August 15 governorship election approaches. Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, emphasized the party’s growing support base during a political rally in Inisa, Odo Otin Local Government Area. At this event, over 500 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) formally defected to the Accord Party, a move led by Aare Kazeem Abdulrasheed. The defectors cited internal dissatisfaction within the APC and concerns regarding the party’s leadership structure as their primary reasons for switching allegiance.
In his address to supporters, Egbedun expressed confidence in the party’s prospects, attributing this optimism to the administration’s performance record under Governor Ademola Adeleke. He stated, “The record of success and achievement will speak, and by August 15, victory will be clear.” Additionally, he called for transparency and fairness in the electoral process, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure accurate vote counting and maintain a free and fair process. “Votes must count, and the process must remain free and fair. The electoral body must act as a truly public institution,” he added.
Egbedun also encouraged existing party members to welcome the new entrants, highlighting the importance of unity in the weeks leading up to the election. “I welcome our brothers and sisters who have joined us. Party faithful should work together with them for the progress of the state,” he remarked. Abdulrasheed, speaking on behalf of the defectors, criticized the APC’s internal structure, alleging that decision-making had become concentrated in the hands of a few individuals. “We left because the party has become a sole proprietorship, controlled by one man whose leadership damaged the state,” he stated. He further noted that the defectors were attracted to the leadership style of Governor Adeleke’s administration.
As the election approaches, Adeleke is seeking re-election on the Accord Party platform, while Bola Oyebamiji will represent the APC. Najeem Salaam is also contesting under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The growing support for the Accord Party and the defections from the APC indicate a shifting political landscape in Osun State, setting the stage for a closely contested race.
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