The Accord Party (AP) has publicly disowned one Chris Imumolen, unequivocally distancing itself from his recent criticisms concerning Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s defection to the party. This decisive move by the national leadership underscores a significant internal power struggle, as the party declared Imumolen’s actions and claims of authority as illegal and unauthorised. The Accord Party’s national coordinator explicitly rejected Imumolen’s characterisation of Governor Adeleke’s entry, asserting it does not reflect the official party stance.

Imumolen had reportedly described Governor Adeleke’s recent defection to the Accord Party as a “black-door entry,” a term implying impropriety and a lack of due process in the high-profile switch. Furthermore, the official statement from the party accused Imumolen of attempting to subvert established democratic processes within the organisation. These serious allegations include orchestrating an unsanctioned “kangaroo” primary election at an undisclosed location within Osun State, aiming to challenge the legitimate leadership structure and processes.

Adding to the gravity of the dispute, Imumolen allegedly proclaimed himself the national chairman of the Accord Party, alongside a self-styled National Working Committee. In a swift and firm response, the Accord Party leadership, through its national coordinator, Rev. Isaac Adeniyi, unequivocally declared all actions taken by Imumolen and his faction as illegal, null, and void. The party also issued a strong public warning, advising its members and the general public against associating with the breakaway group.

The Accord Party’s statement directly appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging the electoral body to disregard any claims or submissions from Chris Imumolen and his group. This appeal highlights the critical role of INEC in validating party leadership and internal processes, particularly in the lead-up to and during election cycles. Such internal conflicts, if left unresolved or unaddressed by the electoral umpire, can significantly impact a party’s standing, its ability to participate in elections, and its overall public credibility.

The controversy surrounding Governor Adeleke’s defection, while central to this specific dispute, also reflects a broader pattern within Nigerian politics where cross-carpeting between parties is a frequent occurrence. While often driven by strategic political calculations and shifting alliances, such movements can sometimes trigger internal disagreements, particularly when they involve high-profile figures. The Accord Party’s swift move to reaffirm Adeleke’s candidacy, despite the internal challenge, signals its intent to maintain stability and project a united front.

Osun State, located in Nigeria’s southwestern geopolitical zone, remains a politically vibrant and often contested territory, making any political developments within its borders significant. Governor Ademola Adeleke, a prominent figure in the state’s political arena, assumed office following a keenly contested election. His defection to the Accord Party, while seemingly a strategic move aimed at bolstering the party, has inadvertently exposed and exacerbated pre-existing fault lines within his new political home, bringing the party’s internal governance mechanisms under scrutiny.

Nigerian political parties operate under a legal framework governed by the Electoral Act and their respective constitutions, which meticulously outline procedures for leadership selection, member registration, and dispute resolution. Any deviation from these established norms, such as conducting unsanctioned primaries or forming parallel leadership structures, is typically deemed unlawful and unsupported by the electoral commission. The Accord Party’s firm stance against Imumolen’s group is therefore rooted in these foundational legal principles and the need to uphold party integrity.

This public disavowal raises pertinent questions about the Accord Party’s internal cohesion and its ability to present a united front in future electoral contests, both at state and national levels. While the national leadership has taken a decisive step to quash the rebellion, the lingering effects of such a high-profile dispute could challenge party unity and potentially deter prospective members or allies. An effective and transparent resolution, therefore, becomes paramount for the party’s long-term viability and electoral prospects.

Rev. Isaac Adeniyi, as the national coordinator, has been the primary voice articulating the Accord Party’s official position throughout this crisis, acting as the party’s spokesperson. His statements have consistently reiterated the party’s commitment to its democratic processes and its outright rejection of any attempts to undermine its legitimate leadership. The clarity and firmness of these pronouncements aim to dispel confusion among members and the public, reinforcing the authority of the recognised party structure.

The Accord Party’s leadership remains resolute in its stance that Chris Imumolen and his associates hold no legitimate position or representation within the party whatsoever. This definitive statement serves as a clear directive to all stakeholders, including the public, media, and electoral bodies, regarding the official and recognised leadership and membership of the Accord Party. The focus now shifts to how INEC will officially acknowledge and respond to these critical internal developments within the party.

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Keywords: Accord Party, Osun State politics, Ademola Adeleke, Chris Imumolen, party leadership dispute, Nigerian political defection, INEC, internal party crisis