The Accord Party has declared that both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the courts have formally recognised Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem as its legitimate National Chairman, insisting that the party’s leadership dispute has been conclusively settled.
The party made the clarification on Tuesday during a world press conference held at its national secretariat in Abuja, where Mgbudem addressed journalists on the party’s leadership structure and internal governance.
According to the party, its position is firmly anchored on the provisions of its constitution, the outcome of an INEC-monitored national convention, and existing court judgments.
Speaking at the briefing, Mgbudem said the party remains resolute in its commitment to democratic principles, internal democracy, and its core ideology.
He explained that the Accord National Convention held in Abuja in July 2024 was conducted in strict compliance with the party’s constitution, the Electoral Act, and INEC guidelines, adding that the electoral body fully monitored the exercise.
Mgbudem stated that the National Working Committee (NWC) led by him was duly elected and inaugurated at the convention.
He also addressed legal disputes that arose from earlier disagreements over the party’s leadership, noting that interim court orders had been misinterpreted by some parties.
According to him, the courts have made it clear that interim orders lapse after seven days, while the status quo is to be maintained pending the determination of substantive motions. He said this underscores that due legal process is being followed.
On disciplinary matters, Mgbudem disclosed that the party’s Disciplinary Committee thoroughly investigated allegations of misconduct against certain members and made recommendations in line with the party’s constitution.
He revealed that the committee found one of the affected members guilty of the allegations and recommended expulsion, a decision that was subsequently reviewed by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
Mgbudem said the NEC went on to pass a vote of confidence in his leadership, affirming him as the authentic National Chairman of the Accord Party.
He further cited a ruling of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, which struck out a suit challenging the party’s leadership, reiterating the settled legal position that internal affairs of political parties—such as leadership selection, discipline, and congresses—are matters best handled internally under party constitutions.
Despite the leadership controversy, Mgbudem stressed that the party remains focused on its electoral objectives.
“We are fully committed to winning upcoming elections in Osun, Ekiti, and the FCT Area Councils, while also laying strong groundwork for the 2027 general elections,” he said.
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