Accord Party Alleges APC Plot To Stage Illegal Parallel Primary Against Adeleke

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The Accord Party leadership in Osun State has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to destabilise its internal political process ahead of the 2026 governorship election in the state.

Party officials claim there are plans to stage what they describe as an unauthorised parallel primary election, a move they believe is intended to challenge the emergence of Governor Ademola Adeleke as the party’s candidate for the upcoming poll.

Party Leadership Condemns Alleged Political Interference

Speaking on the issue, the Osun State Chairman of the Accord Party, Victor Akande, warned that any attempt to organise a separate primary election outside the party’s official structure would be considered invalid.

He alleged that the move is part of a broader political strategy aimed at creating confusion within the party and undermining the stability of the state’s political environment.

According to Akande, such actions could introduce unnecessary tension into Osun’s political landscape.

Claims of Internal Manipulation

The Accord Party chairman further claimed that individuals linked to the ruling APC were allegedly attempting to infiltrate the party’s internal processes.

He suggested that the strategy involved presenting a person associated with the APC as an Accord Party aspirant in order to spark internal disputes and weaken the party’s cohesion.

Akande argued that the alleged attempt reflects political desperation from opponents who are concerned about the growing influence of Governor Adeleke within the state.

Background to the Internal Party Dispute

The controversy comes after earlier disagreements within the Accord Party regarding the legitimacy of certain party leadership structures.

Some party members had previously questioned the authority of the national leadership headed by Barrister Maxwell Ngbudem, claiming it lacked proper recognition.

Despite these concerns, Akande insisted that the party’s leadership remains legitimate and that Adeleke’s affiliation with the Accord Party has strengthened its political standing in Osun.

Rising Popularity of Adeleke

According to the state chairman, the governor’s declaration for the party has generated increased public support and enthusiasm among residents.

Akande argued that Adeleke’s political momentum has made the party more visible across the state, prompting rival political actors to attempt disruptive tactics.

He maintained that the governor’s acceptance among voters continues to grow ahead of the next election cycle.

Call for Intervention by Authorities

The Accord Party has called on key institutions to monitor the situation closely.

Akande urged agencies such as:

Security authorities
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
Other relevant regulatory bodies

to remain vigilant and prevent actions that could threaten peace or undermine democratic processes in Osun State.

He emphasized that only primaries conducted through officially recognised party structures should be considered legitimate.

Commentary and Analysis

Political disputes involving allegations of parallel primaries are not uncommon in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. Such conflicts often emerge when internal party disagreements intersect with broader political competition.

Analysts note that maintaining clear party structures and transparent nomination processes is essential for preserving public confidence in elections.

If the allegations raised by the Accord Party escalate, regulatory institutions such as INEC may eventually be required to determine which party processes are legally valid.

Ultimately, the unfolding situation highlights the increasingly competitive political climate in Osun State as preparations gradually intensify ahead of the 2026 governorship election.