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From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
The Accord Party has demanded the immediate release of all its leaders, candidates, members, and supporters who were arrested and detained in Abuja, Nasarawa, and Osun states during the just-concluded governorship election.
Speaking in Osogbo on Monday, the National Chairman of the Accord Party, Chief Maxwell Ngbudem, argued that the continued detention of these individuals amounted to flagrant violation of their fundamental human rights as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“It is in the interest of justice and equity to release them immediately. The election is over, there is no need for their detention. The Inspector-General of Police is urged to act accordingly,” Ngbudem stated.
He described Governor Ademola Adeleke’s victory as a powerful testament to the people’s resolve to freely and peacefully choose their leader and protect their votes against all odds.
Recalling the build-up to the polls, Ngbudem alleged that the campaign period was marked by unusual harassment, intimidation, property destruction, arrests, detentions, killings, and the misuse of federal might, specifically citing the Police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to oppress the party, the state government, and the people of Osun.
He further claimed that anti-democratic forces had previously attempted to destabilize Governor Adeleke’s administration by crippling local governments through the withholding of federal allocations, despite clear court orders to release the funds.
“The objective is to destabilize the government of His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke, and make Osun State ungovernable to pave the way for a declaration of a state of emergency.
“The people of Osun State, who know the antecedents of their oppressors, stood firmly with their amiable governor. They trooped out to all Accord campaigns across the state, volunteering to reach out to fellow residents in the spirit of political participation,” he noted.
Ngbudem maintained that the party’s achievements and transformative leadership under Governor Adeleke are undeniable, prompting residents to identify with the Accord Party in pursuit of a more prosperous Osun.
He emphasized that the party prepared for an election rather than a war, relying on the belief that the ballot is mightier than the bullet.
“It was indeed the triumph of courage over fear and intimidation. The people have spoken loud and clear with their votes. They have, in one accord, renewed the mandate of their beloved Governor Adeleke, voting for continuity, compassion, and inclusive governance.
“This victory is dedicated to the peace-loving people of Osun State, who have powerfully demonstrated their abiding faith in democratic participation and the Accord government in Osun State,” Ngbudem added.
