The future of Nigeria, according to presidential candidate Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, rests not on ethnic alliances or regional calculations but rather on the election of a capable, patriotic, and visionary leader who can address insecurity, generate employment, and enhance the standard of living for all Nigerians.
According to him, this is the reason for considering what appears to be a concerted effort by certain politicians to elect a Southern-born president in 2027.
In a statement issued Thursday, Dr. Olawepo-Hashim denounced what he called the “persistent manipulation of religion and ethnicity by corrupt political opportunists” who have failed to provide Nigerians with genuine development.
“Neither a Northern or a Southern president is necessary for Nigeria. We desperately need a good president who can secure the country, boost the economy, and give our people hope again,” Hashim said.
Citing instances from Lagos, Kano, and Gboko districts, he said that recent political trends and previous elections have demonstrated that Nigerians are capable of making decisions based on competency rather than ethnic or religious feeling.
Read Also: Breaking: Market Trip Turns Tragic as Gunmen Kill 14 Passengers in Plateau
“The Kano people chose Chief M.K.O. Abiola of Ogun State over their own son, Bashir Tofa, in the 1993 election. More recently, voters in Lagos chose a candidate from another area over the incumbent president. Kashim, a Kanuri Muslim, was elected in Gboko, a predominantly Tiv and Christian constituency. into the first Republic’s Northern regional legislature. “These demonstrate the maturity of our country,” he stated.
Politicians who advocate regional presidency, according to the Frontline politician, are more interested in their own agendas than in fostering national cohesion.
“Those who support a Southern or Northern president are doing so for their own stomachs, not for the benefit of the populace. Such games are no longer popular in Nigeria.
He said, “They want leaders who can work, not leaders who just belong to their region or faith.”
He underlined that the nation’s survival is now at risk and urged all political parties to use credibility, competence, and character as the only requirements for fielding candidates in the 2027 elections.
“Political shenanigans are over. He went on, “We cannot mortgage our future to merchants of ethnicity and religion in order to deserve a decent country run by decent people.”
The former presidential candidate asked Nigerians of all regions and faiths to unite in opposing divisive politics and reiterated his commitment to creating a united, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
