Accord Party Chairman Rejects Godfather Politics, Vows Cohesion Ahead of Osun Governorship Polls

Osun State’s Accord Party insists it is free from political godfathers, with Chairman Pastor Victor Akande describing the party as guided by principles rather than patronage.

Speaking at the 51st edition of The Frontliners organized by the Veteran Journalists Association (VJA) on Wednesday, Akande rejected claims that politics is inherently corrupt. He argued that public mistrust stems from individuals, not the system itself.

“In Accord there is no godfather but we have God as a father. Politics is not a dirty game; it is the people playing it that make it dirty,” Akande said.

The chairman positioned politics alongside the home, government, and the church, noting that misconduct occurs in all professions.

Akande confirmed that Governor Ademola Adeleke emerged as Accord’s governorship candidate following the December 10, 2025, primary election. He highlighted the party’s favourable ballot position and internal cohesion as key advantages for the upcoming elections, particularly in rural areas.

“Our vision is an egalitarian society where everybody becomes somebody. The governor’s agenda aligns with this ideology,” he added.

The party has intensified public outreach, establishing grassroots mobilisation committees across towns, villages, and farm settlements to inform voters about Adeleke’s candidature. Akande dismissed rumours of internal crises, affirming that any reports of factionalism were unfounded.

He further assured supporters that Accord will retain full control of its structures in Osun State, warning that no other party would take over its organisational framework. Details of Adeleke’s candidacy have also been uploaded to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal in full compliance with electoral regulations.

Smollett Adetoyese Shittu-Alamu, Chairman of the VJA, praised Accord as a growing political force in the state, emphasising the role of veteran journalists in mentoring the next generation.

“We have a responsibility to show the next generation how it is done,” Shittu-Alamu said.