By Jannamike Luminous
ABUJA — Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) presidential candidate, denounced what he called an intentional attempt by President Bola Tinubu’s aides to split Nigeria along ethnic and regional lines, cautioning that such rhetoric jeopardizes national security and unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In response to remarks attributed to President Femi Gbajabiamila’s chief of staff, Olawepo-Hashim accused members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of reviving a North-South political dichotomy as a distraction from what he described as deteriorating economic conditions, insecurity, and governance shortcomings.
Olawepo-Hashim said in a statement yesterday that the plan was careless and compromised Nigeria’s national security interests at a time when the nation was experiencing severe social unrest and economic hardship.
It is dishonorable and risky to divide Nigeria along regional lines in order to avoid taking responsibility for poor governance. It is a clear violation of the oath to protect the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s unity.
“Nigerians do not want a president from the North or the South. They want a capable president who can boost the economy, protect people and property, and bring the nation together around a prosperous future.
“Geography cannot be blamed for leadership failure.” Both areas have been in charge. What matters now is performance, not origin.
In addition to being lazy politics, using ethnicity and geography to cover up ineptitude is a blatant insult to Nigerians who are fighting for their lives.
Nigerians will vote for leadership in 2027 rather than tribal allegiance. “The days of emotional blackmail are over,” he emphasized.
