A leading member of the Peoples Democratic Party, Gbenga Hashim, has expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress will be voted out of power in the 2027 general elections. Hashim’s statement comes amid concerns about the ruling party’s efforts to allegedly undermine opposition participation ahead of the next election cycle.
According to Hashim, the APC is engaging in legal and institutional actions aimed at weakening opposition parties. He described these developments as part of a broader pattern that raises serious concerns about the future of democratic competition in Nigeria. Hashim drew parallels with past attempts to undermine political pluralism in the country, citing the era of General Abacha’s dictatorship, which ultimately ended in defeat for the forces of authoritarianism.
Nigeria’s commitment to multiparty democracy is enshrined in its constitution, Hashim noted, emphasizing that the nation’s founding fathers deliberately chose political pluralism at independence. He cautioned against any drift toward authoritarianism, citing the example of Zaire under the late Mobutu Sese Seko, where extended one-man rule weakened democratic institutions.
Hashim also raised concerns about selective administrative decisions in the political party registration process, alleging that some qualified associations have faced delays while others perceived to be aligned with the ruling party have received interim recognition. He described these patterns as warning signs of democratic backsliding and urged Nigerians and the international community to remain vigilant in defending democratic norms.
The PDP chieftain called for lawful and targeted accountability measures against individuals allegedly working to undermine Nigeria’s multiparty system, suggesting that such measures could include travel restrictions and freezing of assets. He emphasized that democracy can only be safeguarded through transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to constitutional principles.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, Hashim’s statement highlights the importance of protecting the country’s democratic system. With concerns about the ruling party’s actions and the need for transparency and accountability, the international community is watching closely. Ultimately, Hashim believes that Nigerians will rise to defend democracy and remove the APC from power peacefully, constitutionally, and through the ballot in 2027.
