Hashim Expresses Concern Over Tinubu’s Remarks, Urges Credible 2027 Elections

The Presidential Candidate of the Accord Party in the 2023 general election, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has expressed concern over recent remarks made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a meeting with Catholic Bishops at the State House, saying the President’s public communication left him worried.

Hashim, who is also Co-Chairman of the Movement for Democratic Renewal, said he listened repeatedly to the President’s remarks and believed they differed significantly from the Bola Tinubu he knew during their interactions between 2018 and 2021.

According to him, his comments were driven by concern rather than politics, stressing that he felt sympathy for the President.

“I listened to the recording over and over again. That was not the Bola Tinubu I knew between 2018 and 2021. I left deeply concerned. I am not making a medical diagnosis, but the President’s public communication gives me the impression that he may require genuine help,” he said.

Hashim added that while many Nigerians may be angry with the President, he was more concerned about his wellbeing, urging those around him to prioritise the President’s welfare and the national interest above political considerations.

He, however, cautioned that whatever challenges the President might be facing should not be allowed to undermine Nigeria’s democracy or electoral process.

Hashim recalled the 2015 general election, when former President Goodluck Jonathan conceded defeat and peacefully handed over power to the opposition, describing the development as a landmark in Nigeria’s democratic history.

According to him, the 2015 election set a democratic standard that enhanced Nigeria’s international reputation, adding that the country must not reverse those gains.

He maintained that the 2027 general election must be conducted in a manner that meets and surpasses the credibility of the 2015 polls.

“Any election that falls short of the 2015 democratic standard will not be acceptable to Nigerians or to the country’s democratic partners across the world,” he stated.

Hashim also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other democratic institutions to remain neutral and professional in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

He stressed that Nigeria’s democracy is greater than the ambitions of any individual, political party or interest group, urging all stakeholders to work towards strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible elections in 2027.