Accord raises alarm over alleged plot to steal election materials in Osun

The Osun State chapter of the Accord Party has alleged a plot to steal sensitive election materials ahead of the August 15 governorship election, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to take immediate action.

The allegation was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the party’s Osun State Chairman, Pastor Victor Babalola Akande.

According to the party, it received credible intelligence indicating that some opposition elements were planning to compromise the electoral process by stealing and concealing sensitive election materials.

“The alleged plot is aimed at preventing the timely deployment of sensitive election materials to selected polling units across the state, a situation that could disenfranchise thousands of eligible voters,” the statement said.

Accord warned that any disruption in the distribution of election materials could affect the credibility of the governorship election if adequate preventive measures are not put in place.

The party urged INEC to strengthen security and accountability in the storage, transportation and distribution of sensitive election materials.

“The people of Osun State are expecting the Commission to conduct a free, fair and transparent election. Any negligence or complicity that allows sensitive election materials to be diverted, withheld or outrightly stolen will be viewed as a grave betrayal of the constitutional responsibility entrusted to the electoral body,” the statement read.

Accord also called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies to investigate the alleged plot and prevent any attempt to disrupt the election.

According to the party, proactive action by security agencies would be more effective than responding after any disruption had already occurred.

The party further vowed to resist, through lawful and democratic means, any attempt to divert, conceal or steal election materials to disenfranchise voters or manipulate the outcome of the poll.

“The sovereign will of the people of Osun State cannot and must not be subverted through electoral sabotage,” the statement added.

Accord also appealed to residents of the state to remain peaceful, vigilant and law-abiding while reporting any suspicious handling or movement of election materials to the appropriate authorities.

It described the August 15 governorship election as a crucial test of democracy in Osun State and urged all stakeholders to ensure a credible and transparent electoral process.