The leadership of the Accord Party, under Prof. Chris Imumolen, has responded to a recent Punch report titled, “INEC disowns factional Accord Party governorship primary in Osun.”
While respecting the role of the media and the statutory responsibilities of INEC, the Party says it is important to set the record straight.
Firstly, the Party complied fully with the law, submitting the required notification of its governorship primary to INEC Headquarters, as mandated by the Electoral Act.
The submission was acknowledged, and evidence remains on record. Any internal lapse within INEC in processing or circulating this notification cannot, in law or logic, be attributed to the Party.
Secondly, Accord Party raises concern over INEC’s selective compliance with court orders.
In October 2024, the FCT High Court recognized Prof. Chris Imumolen as National Chairman.
To date, INEC has not fully implemented this judgment—a situation that calls into question impartiality and institutional fairness.
The leadership dispute within Accord Party is already before the courts, with a hearing scheduled for 8th January to determine the rightful leadership.
It is therefore premature and legally unsustainable for INEC to publicly take positions on matters already under judicial review.
The Party reiterates its commitment to due process, rule of law, internal democracy, and peaceful political engagement.
Accord Party urges INEC to strengthen internal documentation, ensure compliance with court orders, and avoid actions that could erode public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Nigeria’s democracy must not be undermined by administrative inefficiency or institutional bias.
