INEC Courts Affirm Maxwell Mgbudem as Accord Party National Chairman

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The leadership question within the Accord Party appears to have reached a decisive turning point, as the party insists that its internal dispute has now been conclusively resolved. According to the party, both the electoral authority and the judiciary have acknowledged Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem as the rightful National Chairman, effectively ending months of uncertainty surrounding the party’s national leadership.

At a press briefing held at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja, Mgbudem addressed journalists and party stakeholders, outlining what he described as the legal and constitutional foundation for his leadership. The event served as an opportunity for the party to publicly clarify the outcome of the leadership tussle and reinforce the legitimacy of its current structure.

Party officials explained that the recognition of Mgbudem is grounded in three key factors: the Accord Party constitution, the outcome of a properly conducted national convention, and relevant judicial decisions. These elements, according to the party, collectively establish the legitimacy of the current leadership and dispel lingering doubts raised by earlier disputes.

Convention Process and Electoral Oversight

Mgbudem highlighted that the party’s national convention held in Abuja in July 2024 played a crucial role in determining the leadership of the organization. He maintained that the gathering complied fully with all legal and procedural requirements.

The convention, he said, was organized in line with:

Provisions of the Accord Party constitution
Guidelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
Requirements stipulated under Nigeria’s Electoral Act

INEC officials were present to monitor the proceedings, ensuring transparency and adherence to democratic procedures. During the event, delegates elected members of the National Working Committee (NWC), with Mgbudem emerging as chairman.

Following the election, the newly chosen committee members were formally inaugurated, signaling the beginning of their official responsibilities within the party’s national leadership.

Addressing Legal Disputes

The Accord Party leadership acknowledged that disagreements among some members had previously led to legal challenges. Mgbudem explained that certain interim court orders issued during the disputes had been misunderstood or misrepresented.

He clarified that such interim rulings typically expire after seven days unless extended by the court. In situations where a case remains unresolved, he said, the principle of maintaining the “status quo” applies until the substantive issues are heard and determined.

This clarification, according to him, demonstrates that the judicial process surrounding the matter is being handled appropriately and within the framework of established legal procedures.

Disciplinary Investigation Within the Party

Beyond the leadership issue, the party also addressed disciplinary proceedings involving some members. Mgbudem disclosed that allegations of misconduct were formally examined by the party’s Disciplinary Committee.

After reviewing the claims and available evidence, the committee reportedly reached the conclusion that one of the accused members had violated party rules. As a result, the committee recommended expulsion as the appropriate sanction.

The recommendation was subsequently forwarded to the National Executive Committee (NEC) for review. The NEC considered the findings and endorsed the committee’s conclusions while also reaffirming confidence in the party’s current leadership.

Vote of Confidence from Party Leadership

During its deliberations, the NEC passed a formal vote of confidence in Mgbudem’s leadership. The move, according to party officials, was meant to demonstrate unity and reinforce the authority of the elected National Working Committee.

The party believes this endorsement from its highest decision-making body further strengthens the legitimacy of the leadership structure that emerged from the national convention.

Court Position on Internal Party Matters

Mgbudem also referred to a judgment delivered by the Federal Capital Territory High Court in relation to a lawsuit challenging the party’s leadership arrangement.

According to the ruling, the case was struck out, reaffirming a long-standing judicial principle: matters relating to the internal administration of political parties—such as leadership selection, disciplinary procedures, and party congresses—are generally handled within the party’s constitutional framework.

This legal standpoint, the party says, reinforces its argument that the Accord Party has the authority to manage its own internal processes as long as they comply with its constitution and the law.

Looking Ahead to Upcoming Elections

Despite the earlier tensions, the party leadership insists it remains focused on political growth and future electoral contests. Mgbudem stated that the Accord Party is already preparing strategies for several upcoming elections.

Among the key targets outlined are:

Governorship and other elections in Osun State
Electoral contests in Ekiti State
Local government elections within the FCT Area Councils

He added that these preparations are part of a broader plan to strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Commentary and Political Analysis

The Accord Party’s announcement highlights a common feature of Nigerian politics: leadership disputes that eventually require both internal mechanisms and judicial clarification. In this case, the party appears eager to project unity after a period of internal disagreement.

By emphasizing constitutional procedures, INEC monitoring, and court rulings, the party is attempting to reassure members and supporters that its leadership question has been legally and procedurally resolved.

However, the true test of stability may lie in how effectively the party consolidates its internal structures and mobilizes supporters ahead of upcoming elections. If the Accord Party succeeds in translating this claimed unity into electoral performance, it could strengthen its relevance in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive political landscape.