By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Former presidential candidate and Accord Party chieftain, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has alleged that opposition parties are facing increasing political pressure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released ahead of the Accord Party’s presidential primary scheduled for May 30, 2026, Hashim claimed that some influential political actors were attempting to weaken opposition platforms and limit political competition. He alleged that internal disputes within the Accord Party were being fueled by efforts to prevent the party from presenting a presidential candidate in 2027.
Hashim compared the current political atmosphere to the era of former military ruler Sani Abacha, alleging that opposition voices were being undermined.“We are seeing a replay of history, when political parties became tools for a self-succession agenda,” he said.
The former presidential candidate also criticised aspects of Nigeria’s electoral framework, alleging that some political actors were using legal and political strategies to weaken opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Despite the concerns, Hashim said the Accord Party would proceed with its presidential primary as planned. “The presidential primary of the Accord Party is scheduled for Saturday, May 30. We are prepared to participate,” he stated.As of the time of filing this report, there was no official response from the Federal Government or the ruling All Progressives Congress regarding the allegations.
