‘Politics Is Not Dirty We Have God As Our Father’ – Osun Accord Chairman Insists

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The leadership of the Accord Party in Osun State has reaffirmed its stance against political godfatherism, insisting that the party is guided by principles rather than powerful sponsors. According to the state chairman, Pastor Victor Akande, the party’s ideology focuses on values, fairness, and moral direction.

Akande made this position clear while speaking at the 51st edition of “The Frontliners,” an interactive forum hosted by the Veteran Journalists Association in Osun State. During the discussion, he emphasized that the party’s approach to politics is different from what many Nigerians are accustomed to seeing.

Rejecting the Idea That Politics Is Corrupt

During the event, Akande challenged the common perception that politics is inherently corrupt. In his view, political systems themselves are not flawed; rather, it is the actions of individuals within them that sometimes create negative impressions.

He stressed that no profession is completely free from misconduct, arguing that the same human weaknesses seen in politics can also be found in other fields of work.

In one of his remarks, he suggested that the problem lies with practitioners rather than the institution of politics itself.

“We Have God as Our Father”

Explaining the ideological foundation of the Accord Party, Akande declared that the party does not rely on influential sponsors or political patrons.

Instead, he said the party’s guiding force is rooted in faith and principles. According to him, this reliance on divine guidance distinguishes the party from others that often depend on powerful political figures.

He emphasized that the absence of political godfathers allows the party to maintain independence in its decisions and policies.

Governor Adeleke’s Emergence as Candidate

Akande also addressed recent developments surrounding the party’s governorship ticket in the state. He disclosed that Governor Ademola Adeleke emerged as the party’s candidate after winning the Accord Party governorship primary held on December 10, 2025.

According to him, the process that produced the governor as the party’s flag bearer followed internal procedures and demonstrated the party’s commitment to democratic processes.

He further noted that the party’s placement on the ballot paper could work to its advantage during elections.

Strategic Position on Ballot Paper

The chairman pointed out that the Accord Party appears first on the ballot paper, which he believes could make it easier for voters to identify the party.

He suggested that this position could be particularly helpful for voters in rural areas where literacy levels vary, making simple ballot recognition important during elections.

Akande argued that the party’s internal unity, combined with its visibility on the ballot, could increase voter confidence.

Party Ideology and Social Vision

Beyond electoral strategy, Akande highlighted the ideological foundation of the party, describing it as strongly committed to welfarism and social justice.

According to him, the party aims to build a society where opportunities are available to everyone, regardless of background or status.

He added that the governor’s political agenda aligns closely with the party’s vision of promoting fairness, equality, and inclusive development.

Grassroots Mobilisation Underway

To strengthen public awareness of its candidate and policies, the party has reportedly intensified its grassroots mobilisation efforts across Osun State.

Akande explained that local mobilisation teams have been set up across various communities, including towns, villages, and farming settlements.

Their responsibilities include:

Educating residents about the party’s policies
Promoting voter participation
Raising awareness about the governorship candidate

He said these efforts are designed to ensure that people across the state understand the party’s message and feel encouraged to participate in the democratic process.

Party Dismisses Claims of Internal Division

Addressing rumours about factional disputes within the party, the chairman insisted that such reports are inaccurate.

According to him, there was no internal crisis within the Accord Party prior to the governor’s entry, and the alleged factions being discussed in public discourse are unknown to the party’s leadership.

He reassured members and supporters that the party remains united and focused on its political objectives.

Compliance With Electoral Guidelines

Akande also confirmed that the party has fulfilled its obligations regarding the governorship candidacy by submitting the required information to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He emphasized that the party remains committed to following electoral regulations and maintaining transparency throughout the process.

Furthermore, he assured supporters that the party intends to retain full control of its organisational structures in Osun State without external interference.

Veteran Journalists Highlight Party’s Growing Influence

Speaking at the same event, the chairman of the Veteran Journalists Association, Smollett Adetoyese Shittu-Alamu, described the Accord Party as an increasingly visible player in Osun’s political environment.

He noted that the association itself recently adopted a new name after experiencing registration challenges with the Corporate Affairs Commission, having previously operated as the League of Veteran Journalists.

Shittu-Alamu also stressed the importance of veteran journalists contributing to the development of younger media professionals.

Commentary and Analysis

The remarks by the Accord Party chairman reflect an effort to reframe political participation as a value-driven activity rather than a system dominated by powerful patrons.

By emphasizing faith, ideology, and grassroots mobilisation, the party appears to be positioning itself as an alternative platform focused on social justice and inclusive governance.

However, the broader success of this message will depend on how effectively the party translates its ideals into practical policies and electoral support.

In Nigeria’s competitive political landscape, parties often struggle to balance ideological commitments with the realities of political alliances and power structures. The Accord Party’s emphasis on independence from godfatherism could resonate with voters seeking a departure from traditional political practices.

At the same time, maintaining internal unity and strong grassroots organisation will likely determine whether the party can convert its growing visibility into lasting political influence in Osun State.