The national leadership of the Accord Party has dismissed claims that it has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 elections, insisting its focus remains on supporting Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke ahead of the 15 August 2026 governorship poll.
The clarification was made on Thursday in Abuja by the party’s National Chairman, Maxwell Mgbudem, during a press conference addressing rising political speculation.
The clarification follows controversy sparked by a billboard in Iwo, Osun State, which featured images of Tinubu and Adeleke, leading to a political exchange between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the governor’s camp.
While the APC accused Adeleke of leveraging the President’s image for political advantage, his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, countered that the ruling party was facing an “integrity crisis” and reacting to Adeleke’s growing popularity.
Denial of President Tinubu endorsement
Mr Mgbudem rejected reports of any alliance or endorsement involving President Tinubu, stressing that the party’s position had not changed.
“There is nothing like that (Tinubu’s endorsement). This is a political party, and Governor Adeleke is our candidate,” he said.
“If there is any such endorsement, I assure you that the media will be the first to know. It will come from here.”
He added that the party is currently focused on internal processes, including the sale of nomination forms and preparations for upcoming primaries.
Focus on Osun governorship election
The party reaffirmed its commitment to Adeleke’s re-election bid, describing him as its central candidate ahead of the Osun governorship election.
Mr Mgbudem expressed confidence in Adeleke’s chances, citing what he described as strong public support and performance in office.
“Everybody… knows he has done wonderfully well in the state. And the people are eager to vote for him again,” he said.
He further insisted that the election would be decided by the electorate, dismissing fears of political alliances against the governor.
“Accord is not afraid of any gang-up or opposition against him… I can assure you that he is going to win the election with a very wide margin,” he added.
Party unity and internal position
Mr Mgbudem also dismissed claims of internal divisions within the Accord Party, insisting there is no leadership dispute or court ruling affecting its structure.
“For the avoidance of doubt, there is no leadership dispute or faction in Accord, and there is no court order in favour of anyone for INEC to comply with,” he stated.
He added that the party remains focused on upcoming elections and will not be distracted by what he described as “frivolities” from expelled members.
The development comes amid heightened political activities ahead of the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections, as well as early alignments toward the 2027 general elections.
Observers say such clarifications highlight ongoing realignments and sensitivities around endorsements and political alliances in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
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