Gbenga Olawepo‑Hashim, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party, has voiced doubts about the South West’s willingness to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s potential re‑election bid in 2027. He warned that the region is unlikely to back the president if his administration does not change its current course. Speaking through Alhaji Abass Olaniyi, the South West Coordinator of the Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement, Olawepo‑Hashim argued that the South West cannot be expected to reward what he termed “failure in governance” with another mandate.
Olaniyi’s comments were made in response to a recent appeal by political commentator Reno Omokri, who urged both the North and the South West to rally behind Tinubu for a second term. Omokri likened his call to the North’s support for former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019, despite criticism of Buhari’s performance, and highlighted Tinubu’s achievements in GDP growth and infrastructure development as reasons for re‑election.
Olaniyi dismissed Omokri’s position as an attempt to manipulate regional sentiments rather than address issues of competence and results. He emphasized that Nigerians, particularly in the South West, will base their decisions on performance rather than sentimental factors in 2027. According to Olaniyi, the current realities facing Nigerians cannot be ignored, and the region’s support will depend on the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.
The statement from Olawepo‑Hashim’s camp underscores growing concerns about the Tinubu administration’s performance. As the country prepares for the 2027 elections, the South West’s backing will be crucial in determining the outcome. Olawepo‑Hashim’s remarks make clear that the region’s support will not be automatic; the government must demonstrate significant improvements in governance to secure it.
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