Presidential hopeful, 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 and N525 to one United States dollar if elected President of Nigeria.
Hashim made the promise on Thursday as thousands of Accord Party supporters gathered in Dawaki, Abuja, to reaffirm their loyalty and support for his 2027 presidential ambition.
Addressing the crowd, Hashim expressed gratitude to party members and supporters for what he described as their resilience, steadfastness, and courage throughout the recent Accord Party primary process.
The former presidential candidate used the occasion to launch a strong criticism of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing the government of failing to address Nigeria’s worsening economic challenges and the hardship facing millions of citizens.
According to him, the economic conditions confronting Nigerians continue to deteriorate, with rising living costs, declining purchasing power, and increasing unemployment deepening the suffering of ordinary families across the country.
Hashim alleged that those currently in power were more focused on retaining political control than addressing the pressing needs of the people. He further claimed that government actors had become involved in the internal affairs of opposition parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Accord Party, in an effort to weaken alternative political platforms ahead of future elections.
He warned that attempts to undermine democratic participation and political competition could have far-reaching consequences, arguing that history had consistently shown that leaders who cling to power at all costs often face public rejection.
Drawing historical parallels, Hashim referenced the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, saying 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 certain public statements had raised concerns about the transparency and integrity of the process.
He insisted that his political engagement was motivated not by personal ambition but by a desire to improve the welfare and living standards of Nigerians, which he said had deteriorated significantly under the current administration.
Hashim lamented the growing difficulties faced by parents in meeting basic obligations, 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 time when quality education was more accessible and affordable, arguing that current economic realities had placed education beyond the reach of many low-income households.
He said any responsible government must prioritise economic growth, job creation, and educational opportunities for young people, describing them as critical pillars of 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.
Expressing confidence in the future, Hashim said justice would ultimately prevail, adding that leaders who manipulate institutions and abuse power would eventually be judged by history and held accountable for their actions.
He concluded by thanking supporters for their unwavering loyalty and commitment, assuring them that their sacrifices and dedication to what he described as the cause of national renewal would not be in vain.
The gathering marked one of the largest public demonstrations of support for Hashim’s presidential aspiration in the Federal Capital Territory, as political consultations and realignments continue ahead of the 2027 general elections.
