Former presidential candidate and global energy entrepreneur, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has pledged to restore the value of the naira to an exchange rate of between N500- N525 to one United States dollar if elected President of Nigeria, as thousands of Accord Party supporters in FCT converged in Dawaki Abuja on Thursday to reaffirm their loyalty and support for his 2027 presidential ambition.
Addressing the mammoth gathering in Abuja on Thursday, Hashim thanked party members and supporters for what he described as their resilience, steadfastness and courage throughout the recent primary processes of the Accord Party.
The former presidential candidate used the occasion to launch a scathing criticism of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing the government of failing to address the country’s worsening economic situation and the hardship confronting millions of Nigerians.
According to him, the economic realities facing citizens continue to deteriorate daily, with rising costs of living, declining purchasing power and growing unemployment deepening the suffering of ordinary families across the country.
Hashim alleged that those currently in power were more preoccupied with retaining political control than addressing the pressing needs of the people. He further claimed that elements within the government had become involved in the internal affairs of opposition parties, including the ADC, PDP and Accord Party, in a bid to weaken alternative political platforms ahead of future elections.
He warned that attempts to restrict democratic participation and undermine political competition could have serious consequences, arguing that history had repeatedly shown that leaders who sought to cling desperately to power often faced public rejection and divine judgment in Nigeria.
Drawing historical parallels, Hashim referenced the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, stating that no individual could permanently suppress the will of the people or obstruct the course of democracy.
The Accord Party chieftain also expressed disappointment with sections of the party leadership over their recent position regarding his presidential aspiration, maintaining that the timing and content of their public statements had raised questions about the integrity and transparency of the process.
He insisted that his political involvement was driven not by personal ambition but by a commitment to improving the welfare and living conditions of Nigerians, which he said had significantly worsened under the current administration.
Hashim lamented the growing difficulties faced by parents in meeting basic responsibilities, particularly the payment of school fees, noting that many families were being forced to make painful sacrifices to keep their children in school.
Reflecting on his formative years, he recalled a period when quality education was more accessible and affordable, stressing that today’s economic realities had placed education beyond the reach of many low-income households.
He said a responsible government must prioritise economic growth, job creation and educational opportunities for young people, arguing that these were essential ingredients for national development and social stability.
The former presidential candidate urged his supporters to remain peaceful, law-abiding and actively engaged in the democratic process, despite the challenges confronting the opposition and the nation at large.
He expressed confidence that justice would ultimately prevail, adding that leaders who manipulate institutions and abuse power would eventually be held accountable by history and by God.
Hashim concluded by thanking the enthusiastic crowd for what he described as their unwavering love, loyalty and support, assuring them that their sacrifices and commitment to the cause of national renewal would not be in vain.