Former presidential candidate and chieftain of the Accord Party, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has warned that Nigeria is gradually drifting back to what he described as the authoritarian style of governance seen during the late General Sani Abacha era, while insisting that democratic forces will ultimately prevail.
Hashim also accused elements within the current political establishment of allegedly working to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, claiming there is a coordinated effort to restrict credible political competition.
In a statement issued ahead of the Accord Party presidential primary fixed for May 30, 2026, he alleged that certain influential actors were attempting to destabilise opposition structures and frustrate the emergence of strong candidates against the ruling political bloc.
According to him, “Nigeria is being pushed back toward the Abacha years,” describing the situation as a deliberate attempt to concentrate political power in the hands of a few.
He further alleged that internal sabotage within the Accord Party was being orchestrated by a senior party figure, aimed at undermining the party’s unity and weakening its chances of presenting a viable presidential flagbearer.
Hashim likened the current political environment to the Abacha military era, when he claimed political parties were effectively controlled and aligned under a single dominant authority, limiting genuine opposition.
“We are witnessing history repeat itself, where political parties risk becoming instruments of a predetermined agenda,” he said.
He also linked the alleged political strategy to individuals within President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, insisting that such efforts would fail in the long run.
“This organised attempt by powerful interests will not succeed, just as similar moves failed in the past,” he added.
Hashim further argued that opposition parties are being systematically weakened through legal and political mechanisms, including what he described as controversial electoral reforms and strategic manipulation of party structures.
Despite the reported internal tensions within the Accord Party, he maintained that the party’s presidential primary would proceed as planned, expressing confidence in the process.
“The primary is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, and preparations are ongoing. By God’s grace, it will hold successfully,” he stated.
He concluded with a firm pledge that democratic advocates in the country would continue to resist any attempt to undermine political freedom or pluralism.
“We will not be silenced or discouraged. Democracy was hard-won, and we remain committed to defending it,” he said.