In a recent interview, the National Chairman of the Accord Party, Prof. Chris Imumolen, addressed several pressing national issues, his emergence as party leader, and reflections on the 2023 presidential election.
Emergence as National Chairman
Following the 2023 presidential election, where Imumolen was the Accord Party’s candidate, he turned his focus to restructuring the party. He explained that after the election, it became evident that significant work was needed to strengthen the party’s foundation. Historically, smaller parties like Accord tend to lose key members to larger parties after elections, but Imumolen decided to remain committed to building the party into a significant force in Nigerian politics.
Imumolen recounted how a convention was held to elect the party’s leadership. However, another faction of the party held their own convention at a separate, unknown location, which led to a dispute. The faction allegedly submitted a report to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), claiming the attendance of over 500 people, which Imumolen and his team challenged in court. The court ultimately ruled in favor of Imumolen, instructing INEC to recognize him as the party’s national chairman.
Restructuring the Party
Despite the court ruling, there has been ongoing resistance from other factions. Nevertheless, Imumolen is focused on revitalizing the party and addressing internal issues. He highlighted the need for party unity and shared that efforts are being made to bring back expelled members. His goal is to create a more inclusive and patriotic party that genuinely serves the interests of Nigerians.
“We need to reposition the party. Just last week, we had a Southern stakeholders’ meeting, and we called back everyone who had been expelled. It’s important that a political party operates as a collective, not as a one-man show,” he stated.
National Challenges and Future Ambitions
On the current challenges facing Nigerians, Imumolen expressed deep concern. He emphasized that the Accord Party must engage in nation-building beyond election seasons, particularly as many Nigerians face economic hardships, high oil prices, and the adverse effects of fluctuating exchange rates.
When asked about his plans for the 2027 presidential election, Imumolen was clear that his immediate focus is on the present condition of the country, not future political ambitions. “2027 is still some years away. Right now, I’m more concerned about the suffering of Nigerians. We need to focus on the current challenges and how we can contribute to addressing them as a party and as citizens.”
Reflections on the 2023 Election
Addressing his performance in the 2023 election, Imumolen refused to view it as a loss. He argued that although he didn’t win the presidency, the increasing inclusion of young people in political appointments under the current administration could be traced to the efforts of young candidates like himself who advocated for greater youth involvement.
He also criticized the internal distractions within his party and the broader political system, including media bias, which he believes limited his visibility during the campaign. According to Imumolen, the media tends to focus disproportionately on two or three major political parties, undermining the chances of smaller parties like Accord.
On Labour Party’s Success and Media Influence
Prof. Imumolen acknowledged the success of the Labour Party in 2023, attributing its rise to a popular movement rather than media promotion. He noted that the movement, which embraced Peter Obi as its candidate, was already seeking a figure to rally behind when Obi was chosen. Imumolen contrasted this with his own experience, emphasizing that smaller parties must work harder to gain media visibility and build connections with the electorate.
In conclusion, Imumolen called for continuous efforts to build relationships with Nigerians, ensuring that Accord Party remains a viable political platform. He emphasized that political parties should be actively engaged in nation-building year-round, rather than only during election periods.