Hashim, in a statement, accused elements within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of pushing a renewed North–South dichotomy as a desperate political diversion, aimed at shielding the Tinubu administration from growing scrutiny over worsening economic conditions and poor governance outcomes
A presidential hopeful of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has strongly condemned what he described as a deliberate attempt by aides of President Bola Tinubu to fracture Nigeria along regional and ethnic lines, warning that such rhetoric amounts to a betrayal of the Nigerian nation.
Hashim, in a statement, accused elements within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of pushing a renewed North–South dichotomy as a desperate political diversion, aimed at shielding the Tinubu administration from growing scrutiny over worsening economic conditions and poor governance outcomes
Reacting to a statement attributed to the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the PDP chieftain described the approach as “pedestrian, reckless, and fundamentally undermines Nigeria’s National Security interest.”
He said, “Dividing Nigeria along regional lines in order to escape accountability for governance failure is shameful and dangerous. It is a direct betrayal of the oath to defend the unity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Speaking on the build-up to the 2027 general elections, Hashim dismissed arguments centered on rotational presidency, insisting that Nigerians are no longer interested in symbolic power-sharing arrangements.
“Nigerians are not asking for a Northern or Southern president. They are asking for a competent president, one who can revive the economy, secure lives and property, and unite the country around a shared future, of Prosperity,” he stated.
Hashim further reminded the APC that both regions have had significant opportunities to govern Nigeria since the return to democracy in 1999, noting that the South has produced presidents for about 17 years, while the North has governed for roughly 10 years within the same period.
“Leadership failure cannot be blamed on geography. Both regions have governed. What matters now is performance, not origin,” he said.
He warned that reviving ethnic narratives at a time of deep economic distress, rising insecurity and social fragmentation only exposes what he described as the ruling party’s lack of credible solutions.
“Using ethnicity and region to mask incompetence is not only lazy politics, it is a direct insult to Nigerians who are struggling to survive,” Hashim added.
Calling on Nigerians to reject divisive politics, Hashim stressed that the APC would not be able to hide behind regional sentiment in the next election cycle.
“Come 2027, Nigerians will vote for leadership, not tribal loyalty. The era of emotional blackmail is over,” he concluded.