Accord denies Tinubu endorsement, reaffirms support for Adeleke

The national leadership of the Accord Party has dismissed claims that it has endorsed President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

The party said its priority remains consolidating support for Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

 

National Chairman of the party, Maxwell Mgbudem, made the clarification on Thursday during a press conference in Abuja, amid heightened political activities.

 

“There is nothing like that (Tinubu’s endorsement). This is a political party, and Governor Adeleke is our candidate. If there is any such endorsement, I assure you the media will be the first to know,” he said.

 

The denial follows controversy over a billboard in Iwo, Osun State, which featured images of Tinubu and Adeleke, sparking exchanges between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the governor’s camp.

 

While the APC accused Adeleke of exploiting the President’s image, the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, alleged that the ruling party was unsettled by Adeleke’s growing popularity.

 

Defending the governor’s performance, Mgbudem said Adeleke enjoys strong grassroots support and is well-positioned for re-election.

 

“Everybody knows he has done wonderfully well in the state, and the people are eager to vote for him again,” he said.

 

He added that Accord is not threatened by opposition alliances, insisting that the party remains focused on the electoral process.

 

The chairman also described the party as a growing force in Nigeria’s political landscape, attributing its expansion to Adeleke’s influence and support base.

 

Mgbudem further dismissed reports of a leadership crisis within the party, denying claims by former presidential candidate Christopher Imumolen, who has reportedly sought recognition as party chairman.

 

“For the avoidance of doubt, there is no leadership dispute or faction in Accord, and there is no court order in favour of Imumolen or anybody,” he said.

 

He maintained that the party would not be distracted by internal controversies as it prepares for upcoming elections.