The Accord Party has asked the European Union to intervene in the political crisis in Osun State ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.
In a letter dated August 12 and addressed to Gautier Migot, head of the EU delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Accord national chairman Maxwell Mgbudem alleged that the political climate had deteriorated, with reports of violence, arrests, intimidation and harassment of political actors and supporters.
According to the party, at least 29 people have been killed in incidents allegedly linked to the political situation in the state, while several others were injured.
Mgbudem also alleged that more than 60 Accord members and supporters had been arrested and detained in Abuja and Nasarawa State.
The party expressed concern over what it described as the selective use of federal law-enforcement and regulatory institutions during the election period.
However, Mgbudem said the party was not seeking to obstruct legitimate investigations or lawful enforcement actions.
“The timing, manner and perceived selectivity of actions by public institutions during an election period are capable of undermining public confidence if they are not demonstrably impartial, transparent and consistent with due process,” the petition said.
The Accord chairman also alleged that party members had faced attacks, harassment and intimidation.
He cited a viral video in which serving Senator Francis Fadahunsi allegedly called for Accord members to be killed wherever they were found.
Mgbudem urged the EU to use its diplomatic influence to encourage Nigerian authorities to ensure a level playing field for all political parties.
The party called on the EU to publicly support a free, fair, transparent, credible and peaceful election, with the outcome determined by voters.
Accord said the proposed intervention should focus on preventive diplomacy, arguing that early international engagement could help prevent further escalation ahead of the poll.
