…”The opposition in Osun has been outmaneuvered and outmatched by the ruling party.”
By Comrade James Onifade
The unsuccessful attempt to deregister the ACCORD Party in Osun State represents more than a routine political development. It marks a significant moment for democratic participation, the resilience of opposition politics, and the resolve of party loyalists who have refused to succumb to intimidation.
In recent weeks, coordinated claims and speculative narratives circulated to undermine public confidence in ACCORD’s legitimacy and relevance in Osun. Many observers interpret this as part of a broader strategy by the Osun APC to diminish opposition ahead of future elections—aimed at eliminating a competing voice before the electorate could assess it.
The outcome reaffirms a fundamental political principle: parties grounded in organizational structure, loyalty, and grassroots engagement cannot be dismantled through external pressure alone. Administrative tactics and propaganda may generate temporary disruption, but they cannot substitute for sustained public trust.
ACCORD remains legally recognized, operational, and arguably strengthened. What was intended to weaken the party has instead galvanized its membership across Osun. The attempt to suppress it has heightened political awareness and commitment among its supporters.
This development merits attention because democracy endures only when diverse political perspectives are permitted to participate freely. When a dominant party seeks to eliminate rivals through procedural mechanisms rather than electoral competition, it reveals a deficit in its own connection with the electorate.
Opposition parties are not adversaries of the state. They serve essential functions in ensuring balance, accountability, and political choice. Democracy is undermined when those in power treat opponents as threats to be removed, rather than competitors to be defeated through performance and public support.
The alleged action against ACCORD raises important concerns about political tolerance within Nigeria’s democratic framework. When political actors prioritize weakening rivals through administrative means over persuading citizens through policy and governance, democratic progress is impeded. The focus shifts from competition of ideas to control of process.
What is notable is ACCORD’s response. Rather than fragmentation or retreat, the party has demonstrated increased cohesion. Across local governments and wards, members view the failed attempt as evidence of their continued relevance and expanding influence. This renewed confidence could prove advantageous in upcoming elections.
Historical precedent indicates that political intimidation often produces unintended consequences. When a group is perceived to be unfairly targeted, public sympathy and solidarity tend to increase. In this instance, the pressure appears to have mobilized ACCORD supporters rather than deterred them.
With the immediate controversy subsiding, ACCORD faces greater responsibility. Survival is the initial step. The next phase requires translating this momentum into strategic engagement, grassroots mobilization, and the presentation of credible candidates capable of securing public confidence.
The forthcoming elections should center on issues that directly affect citizens’ daily lives: employment, education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, and youth empowerment. If ACCORD intends to convert this moment into electoral support, it must address these priorities directly and substantively.
For ACCORD, this is an opportunity to define itself beyond mere political survival—to establish itself as a symbol of perseverance, inclusivity, and democratic participation. It can demonstrate to Osun that opposition serves to strengthen accountability, not to create instability.
The failure of the alleged deregistration attempt also serves as a caution against the belief that administrative pressure can substitute for genuine political legitimacy. Authentic political strength derives from public endorsement, not coercion. Reliance on procedural maneuvers over popular support erodes credibility.
Ultimately, democracy is the principal beneficiary. ACCORD’s continued presence affirms the principle that every legitimate political organization is entitled to organize, campaign, and seek public support without unlawful interference.
The covert strategy attributed to the APC has not succeeded. Declaring victory without engaging the electorate carries no substantive weight. Let AMBO present his case to the people of Osun on August 15.
With misinformation and propaganda addressed, party members, loyalists, and all citizens of Osun committed to progress should initiate coordinated mobilization for the re-election campaign. Demonstrate that Osun requires leadership evaluated on performance and policy, not intimidation.
Signed:
Comrade James Onifade
Advocate for Good Governance and A Better Judicial System
