OSOGBO – A deepening crisis within the Accord Party in Osun State erupted into open confrontation on Sunday, as a dissident faction held a parallel governorship primary, electing Mr. Clement Bamigbola as its candidate for the 2026 election.
This dramatic move comes just four days after the state’s incumbent Governor, Ademola Adeleke, was presented as the party’s sole aspirant and flag-bearer by another faction led by Barrister Maxwell Ngbudem.
The rival primary, held at the Regina Suites in Osogbo, saw approximately 300 delegates from across the state converge. Mr. Bamigbola was elected by a voice vote and affirmation.
Announcing the result, the Chairman of the Factional Primary Election Committee, Hon. Olufemi Ogundare, declared Mr. Bamigbola duly elected as the party’s governorship candidate. He was subsequently presented with the party flag in a symbolic ceremony.
The dissenting group’s action stems from a fundamental dispute over the party’s national leadership. The faction rejects Governor Adeleke’s candidacy, insisting that Barrister Ngbudem, under whose auspices Adeleke emerged, is not the legally recognized National Chairman of the Accord Party.
This parallel exercise sets the stage for a potentially protracted legal and political battle over the legitimate standard-bearer for the party ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial contest.
When contacted for a reaction, officials from the Ngbudem-led faction maintained that Governor Adeleke’s nomination remains valid and the Sunday primary was an illegitimate gathering.
Political analysts suggest this internal schism could significantly weaken the party’s cohesion and electoral prospects unless a swift resolution is brokered.
