Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who recently returned to the party after a stint with the All Progressives Congress (APC), has declared that young Nigerians are more concerned about job creation and national security than recycled politicians. Speaking in a recent interview, Olawepo-Hashim shared insights into his political journey, concerns about electoral integrity, and the need for leadership that reflects the will of the people.

On His Political Shift

Olawepo-Hashim explained that his move to the APC in 2021 was a strategic withdrawal rather than a permanent departure. During his time with the APC, he remained politically quiet, describing it as a period of reflection. Now back in the PDP—a party he helped build in 1998—he emphasized his return to his political roots and core democratic values.

Recounting the party’s origins, he detailed how the PDP emerged from resistance to General Sani Abacha’s self-succession plan. He shared that following Abacha’s death in 1998, civil society actors—himself included—played a pivotal role in shaping the transition plan that led to Nigeria’s return to democracy. Many of the electoral reforms they proposed were adopted, including the establishment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Why PDP Lost Its Way

According to Olawepo-Hashim, internal power struggles and a departure from founding principles led to the PDP’s decline. He stressed that the party became disconnected from its original mission of inclusivity and grassroots democracy. "The PDP didn’t rise on the back of powerful individuals or money, but on trust in its founding members," he noted, citing figures like Abubakar Rimi and Dr. Olusola Saraki.

He believes the party can regain relevance only by returning to these foundational ideals. “PDP will bounce back if it reconnects with its roots. Otherwise, it risks becoming irrelevant,” he warned.

On Internal Struggles and Party Discipline

While acknowledging internal conflicts in the PDP, Olawepo-Hashim stated that disputes are normal in politics as long as they are resolved democratically. He stressed the need for stronger discipline and institutional structure within the party, noting that many defections and conflicts were a result of the lack of enforcement of party rules.

On Leadership and the 2027 Elections

Addressing the upcoming PDP convention, Olawepo-Hashim stated that leadership roles should reflect inclusion and values-driven governance. He emphasized that the North Central region, which has repeatedly produced party chairmen, is now looking for other significant roles.

Regarding his political aspirations, he confirmed that he is not seeking the chairmanship but hinted at a possible presidential bid, stating, "If I’m going to contest, it will not be for anything less than the presidency."

On President Tinubu’s Administration

Olawepo-Hashim delivered a harsh critique of the current government, stating that both national security and the economy are in disarray. He cited various economic reports showing Nigeria’s GDP has declined drastically since 2014, accusing the current administration of manipulating statistics and failing to admit the gravity of the situation.

He argued that, under a parliamentary system, the administration would not have survived. “There’s no seriousness in a government that denies obvious economic data. If this were a parliamentary system, this government would have collapsed already,” he said.

The Youths Want Change

He pointed out that young Nigerians are not fixated on political platforms but are demanding real solutions. “They’re not interested in PDP, APC, or ADC. They want leaders who will create jobs and guarantee security,” he said, adding that media platforms often amplify elite political narratives instead of reflecting the genuine concerns of the people.

On 2027 and Political Manipulation

According to him, all signs point to the ruling party planning to manipulate the 2027 elections. However, he drew parallels with the failure of similar attempts during Abacha’s regime. “Everyone can see the moves being made: coercion, blackmail, plotting defections. But it won’t work,” he said confidently.

He stressed that just as the civil resistance stopped Abacha's succession plan in 1998, the people will reject any undemocratic attempt in 2027.

A Message to the Media and Political Class

Olawepo-Hashim urged media institutions to shift focus from elite politics and set an agenda for national development. “Let’s move beyond the North-South divide. Let’s talk about security, jobs, and health care. That’s what matters to Nigerians,” he said.

On Northern Sentiment and the Myth of Buhari’s 12 Million Votes

He dismissed the idea of the North voting as a bloc in 2027, emphasizing that Northern Nigeria is diverse and increasingly driven by economic concerns rather than religious or ethnic sentiment. He also noted that the myth of Buhari’s 12 million votes has expired with his presidency, citing the growing awareness and dissatisfaction among Northern youth.

Rejecting Identity Politics

Finally, Olawepo-Hashim rejected the idea that only a Southern candidate can defeat President Tinubu. He said Nigerians want competence, not regional or religious representation. “The next election shouldn’t be about North vs. South. It should be about who can fix Nigeria,” he concluded.