Accord disowns alleged endorsement of Gov Otti, says move lacks party backing

By Jude Opara

The Accord Party has dismissed reports claiming it endorsed Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, for the 2027 governorship election, describing the purported endorsement as invalid and misleading.
The party also clarified that it never instructed its Abia State chapter to support the Labour Party-led government in the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its spokesperson, Joseph Omorogbe, the party said those behind the endorsement are no longer members of Accord, having been expelled in 2024 over alleged anti-party activities.
The statement specifically referenced Prof. Christopher Imumolen and his associates, who recently visited Governor Otti at the Government House in Umuahia, where they reportedly declared support for his second-term ambition.
Accord, however, insisted that the endorsement holds no weight within the party structure.
“It is obvious that non-members of a political party cannot speak, act, or endorse any aspirant for any elective position on behalf of the authentic leadership of the party,” the statement said.
The party further accused the group of impersonation and political misrepresentation, alleging that their actions were intended to mislead the public and create confusion within the political space.
“It is unfortunate that Gov Alex Otti fell victim to these political mercenaries roaming the democratic space seeking vulnerable politicians to exploit in this election season,” it added.
Accord stressed that its authentic leadership remains under Barrister Maxwell Mgbuden, noting that only the party’s National Executive Committee has the authority to nominate candidates for elections.
It urged Nigerians and the media to verify party leadership structures with the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), before reporting or accepting political endorsements.
The party reaffirmed its unity and readiness for the 2027 general elections under its recognised leadership.