Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a Presidential candidate, has stated that Nigeria’s future is dependent not on regional calculations or ethnic alliances, but on the emergence of a competent, patriotic, and visionary President capable of combating insecurity, creating jobs, and improving living conditions for all citizens.
He stated this while weighing in on what appears to be a coordinated effort by some politicians for a President of Southern descent in the 2027 election.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Dr. Olawepo-Hashim decried the “continuous manipulation of religion and ethnicity by corrupt political opportunists” who have failed to offer true development to Nigerians.
“Nigeria does not require a Southern or Northern President. “What our country urgently needs is a good President, one who can secure the nation, revive the economy, and restore hope among our people,” Hashim said.
He used instances from the Lagos, Kano, and Gboko constituencies to demonstrate that Nigerians may make judgments based on competency rather than ethnic or religious sentiments.
“In the 1993 election, the Kano people rejected their own son, Bashir Tofa, in favor of Chief M.K.O Abiola of Ogun State. Voters in Lagos recently rejected the current President in favor of a contender from another region. Kashim, a Kanuri Muslim, was elected in Gboko, a seat dominated by Tiv and Christians. Into the Northern Regional Assembly of the First Republic. “These are signs of our national maturity,” he remarked.
The Frontline politician blasted lawmakers who support regional presidents of prioritizing personal interests over national unity.
“Those who advocate for a Southern or Northern presidency do it for personal gain, not for the benefit of the people. Nigerians are no longer interested in such games.
“They want leaders who can work, not leaders who merely belong to their region or faith,” he told reporters.
Read Also: BREAKING: Gunmen Kill 14 Passengers Returning from Plateau Market Attack
He urged all political parties to use credibility, competence, and character as the sole criteria for nominating candidates in the 2027 elections, emphasizing that the country’s survival is now at stake.
“The time for political shenanigans has passed. Our future cannot be mortgaged to ethnic and religious merchants in order to deserve a decent country run by decent people,” he said.
The former presidential contender restated his commitment to establishing a united, secure, and prosperous Nigeria, urging residents of all regions and faiths to join forces in rejecting divisive politics.
