Accord accuses police of selective arrests, questions security operations

The Accord Party in Osun State has accused the Nigeria Police Force of carrying out selective arrests and intimidation of its members ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

The party made the allegation while reacting to the police’s denial of claims that it had compiled a list of politicians for arrest before the poll.

In a statement issued by the Osun State Chairman of the party, Pastor Victor Akande, Accord alleged that recent police operations across parts of the state had disproportionately targeted its members and supporters.

The party questioned the circumstances surrounding the arrest of one of its members, who it claimed was detained despite being the victim of a violent attack, while alleging that the suspected attacker had not been apprehended.

Accord further claimed that several individuals allegedly linked to violent activities were still moving freely, while its members continued to face what it described as unwarranted arrests and harassment.

The party called on the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant authorities to investigate the conduct of security personnel deployed to Osun State and ensure professionalism and neutrality in the discharge of their duties.

Accord also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders to closely monitor developments ahead of the governorship election to safeguard the credibility of the electoral process.

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful participation in the election, the party appealed to its supporters to remain law-abiding while expressing confidence that the electorate would freely exercise their democratic rights on election day.