The Accord Party has petitioned President Bola Tinubu, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and other stakeholders over what it describes as the harassment, intimidation and arrest of its members ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State.
The party also renewed its call for the removal of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, alleging that his continued presence could compromise the credibility of the election.
In a statement issued by its National Chairman, Maxwell Mgbudem, the party alleged that approximately 100 of its leaders, candidates, members and supporters had been arrested and detained across the state.
According to Mgbudem, some of those arrested were reportedly transferred to Abuja, a development he said has raised concerns about political interference and intimidation.
The party argued that the actions of the police constitute a threat to democratic participation and could negatively affect public confidence in the electoral process.
Accord further alleged that previous complaints concerning attacks on its campaign council, party offices, supporters and campaign materials received little or no response from security agencies.
“We had previously addressed the media on the mindless killing of our leaders and supporters, multiple attacks on our campaign council and party offices, and destruction of campaign billboards by thugs,” the statement said.
“These attacks were duly reported to the police and other security agencies, but none of the perpetrators was arrested or prosecuted.”
The party claimed that the recent arrests were politically motivated and aimed at weakening its campaign structure ahead of the election.
Mgbudem urged President Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, civil society organisations and members of the international community to intervene and ensure a level playing field for all political parties participating in the election.
Despite the allegations, the party called on its supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
“No brute force will break the resolve of the people of Osun from identifying with Accord and its candidate in the upcoming election. In the end, the ballot is stronger than the bullet,” the statement added.
The petition comes amid intensified political activities across Osun State as parties mobilise supporters ahead of the governorship poll.
Security agencies have repeatedly assured Nigerians of their neutrality and commitment to providing a peaceful environment before, during and after the election.
Political observers have stressed that public confidence in security agencies and electoral institutions will be crucial to ensuring a credible and peaceful governorship election.
