Nigeria’s prominent political figure, Mr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, is advocating for a robust overhaul of the electoral framework before the 2027 elections. He previously ran for president under the All Progressives Congress (APC) banner.
In his recent address, he emphasized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should operate autonomously, free from external influences. He believes the method of selecting INEC’s leadership should change. He suggests filling roles like the INEC chairman and national commissioners through public job postings instead of presidential appointments.
According to a report by The Sun, Olawepo-Hashim stressed INEC should validate election credibility. Currently, petitioners shoulder this responsibility. He warned of potential chaos in 2027 if reforms don’t happen soon. He said, “This fight for reform isn’t only for the opposition. All patriotic Nigerians should join this effort.”
He commented on the increasing number of coups in Africa and raised concerns about democracy’s global standing. Democracy seems to be losing its essence, he observed. The judiciary, he mentioned, works based on existing laws and the evidence presented.
He spoke about his activist days during the military rule and his push for an independent INEC. He proposed the National Judicial Service Commission (NJSC) should function independently of the Executive branch.
Recalling the 1999 election victory of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olawepo-Hashim noted it was his group that had called for an independent electoral commission. He proudly stated, “We did this as true democracy believers, not opportunists.”
For Nigeria’s future, he emphasized the need for unity. He believes the country’s survival isn’t only on major parties like the APC and PDP but on cross-party believers in democracy.
Olawepo-Hashim concluded by differentiating between politicians and statesmen. Nigeria, he said, needs more statesmen to lead its reform path.
