DR. GBENGA OLAWEPO HASHIM SPEAKS OUT AGAINST DIVISIVE POLITICS

By Olayiwola Ibrahim / Lagos // A former Presidential Candidate and Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has expressed his unwavering commitment to repairing the damaged bridges of national unity in Nigeria.

Speaking at an interaction with senior media executives in Lagos, Dr. Hashim lamented the manipulation of ethnic and religious fault lines by desperate politicians, which he believes is holding the nation’s polity to ransom.

Dr. Hashim noted that despite Nigerians’ demonstrated apathy towards a leader’s origin, a new breed of political opportunists continues to distract the nation from pressing issues of economic development and security.

Specifically, he referenced the PDP’s recent decision to zone the 2027 Presidential ticket to the Southern part of the country, which has sparked widespread condemnation among party members, particularly from the North.

According to Dr. Hashim, this decision is retrogressive and unconstitutional, with the potential to pit the North against the South.

He emphasized the need to rally the nation around issues that unite rather than divide, citing the commitment to national unity that defined the politics of Nigeria’s Founding Fathers.

The presidential Candidate, drew inspiration from historical examples, such as Dr. Herbert Macaulay handing over the NCNC to Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo rallying support for Ernest Ikoli, and Joseph Tarka backing Kashim Ibrahim.

He also mentioned the great people of Kano voting massively for Chief MKO Abiola against Alhaji Bashir Tofa in the June 12, 1993 Presidential elections.

Dr. Hashim urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the noble spirit of commitment to national unity passed down by their heroes.

He vowed not to let the flame of unity in diversity be extinguished by the activities of political opportunists and emphasized the need to amplify the best in Nigerians, not their worst.

Dr. Hashim recalled that resolution of the economy is very crucial at this point, advising meaningful Nigerians to take the right steps in voting for right candidate, who has mind of the people.