The national leadership of Accord Party has denied reports that it endorsed Alex Otti for a second term ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Abia State.

The party also dismissed claims that it directed its Abia State chapter to work with the ruling Labour Party, insisting that those who recently visited Governor Otti in Umuahia had no authority to speak on behalf of Accord.

In a statement signed by the party’s spokesperson, Joseph Omorogbe, Accord said the individuals involved in the endorsement were not recognised members of the party.

According to the statement, Professor Christopher Imumolen and members of his group had already been expelled from Accord in 2024 over alleged anti-party activities.

The party accused them of falsely presenting themselves as party leaders and misleading the public with the endorsement.

“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 read.

Support With No Effect

The controversy followed a recent courtesy visit by Imumolen’s group to Governor Otti, where support was publicly declared for his re-election bid.

But Accord described the endorsement as “null, void and of no effect,” arguing that expelled members had no legal or political standing within the party.

The party further accused the group of impersonation and political manipulation, alleging that they were attempting to exploit the current political atmosphere ahead of the next election cycle.

“What Imumolen and his co-travelers did in Umuahia is their usual showmanship and impersonation of the Accord leadership,” the statement added.

Accord also criticised Governor Otti for receiving the delegation without first verifying the party’s recognised leadership with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

2027 In View

The party stated that the authentic national chairman recognised by INEC remains Barrister Maxwell Mgbuden and stressed that only the party’s officially recognised National Executive Committee has the power to endorse candidates or make election-related decisions.

The development highlights growing political tensions and alliance battles ahead of the 2027 elections, as parties continue to reposition and clarify loyalties.

With endorsements, defections, and coalition talks becoming increasingly common, political parties are now paying closer attention to internal control, legitimacy, and public perception.

For Accord, this latest statement appears aimed at drawing a clear line between its recognised leadership and individuals it describes as expelled political actors.

And as the race toward 2027 gradually intensifies, disputes over party identity and authority may become just as important as the elections themselves.