We Have Travelled This Road Under Abacha – Olawepo-Hashim Accuses APC of Using Legal Tricks

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Former presidential aspirant Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has intensified political debate ahead of Nigeria’s next general elections, declaring that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will ultimately lose power despite what he described as attempts to weaken opposition forces through institutional strategies.

Rather than presenting his remarks as routine political criticism, Olawepo-Hashim framed current developments within a broader historical context. He argued that Nigeria has previously faced similar pressures during authoritarian periods and emerged stronger through democratic resistance.

According to him, efforts allegedly aimed at restricting political competition cannot override the nation’s commitment to multiparty governance. He maintained that administrative or legal tactics would not succeed in undermining democratic participation, insisting that Nigeria’s political evolution has repeatedly proven resilient.

Drawing parallels with past national experiences, the PDP chieftain referenced the military era under General Sani Abacha, noting that attempts to centralize political authority ultimately failed. He suggested that history demonstrates how public demand for democratic rule eventually prevails over restrictive governance systems.

He further emphasized that Nigeria’s constitutional foundation intentionally protects pluralism, stressing that the country’s founders embedded political diversity to prevent dominance by a single party or individual. In his view, safeguarding this principle remains essential to preserving national stability.

Concerns Over Political Processes

Olawepo-Hashim expressed particular unease about recent developments in political party administration, alleging inconsistencies in how new political associations are treated during registration processes. He claimed that while some groups face delays, others perceived to be aligned with the ruling establishment appear to receive quicker recognition.

His comments suggested that such patterns, if left unchecked, could weaken confidence in electoral fairness and undermine competitive politics. He warned Nigerians to remain alert to any actions capable of narrowing democratic space.

To reinforce his argument, he invoked international examples, cautioning against governance models resembling prolonged single-party dominance witnessed in countries such as Zaire during the rule of Mobutu Sese Seko. Nigeria, he said, must avoid repeating historical mistakes associated with centralized power.

Reframed Key Themes From His Statement

Instead of viewing the remarks as isolated criticism, Olawepo-Hashim’s position can be understood through three interconnected ideas:

Protection of Multiparty Democracy

Defence of constitutional political pluralism
Opposition to perceived concentration of power

Historical Lessons

Reference to Nigeria’s military past as evidence of democratic resilience
Warning against authoritarian precedents elsewhere in Africa

Call for Accountability

Encouragement of lawful oversight mechanisms
Appeal for domestic and international vigilance

He urged democratic stakeholders globally to monitor political developments carefully, suggesting that lawful accountability measures should apply to anyone found undermining democratic institutions.

Commentary & Analysis

Olawepo-Hashim’s intervention highlights the increasingly charged atmosphere surrounding Nigeria’s political preparations for 2027. Opposition figures are beginning to frame electoral competition not merely as a contest for power but as a broader struggle over democratic integrity.

His reliance on historical comparisons serves a strategic purpose: linking present political concerns with well-known periods of resistance against authoritarian rule. Such rhetoric often seeks to mobilize public sentiment by reminding citizens of past democratic victories.

At the same time, the debate underscores a familiar tension within emerging democracies — balancing strong governance with inclusive political participation. Allegations of institutional advantage, whether proven or disputed, tend to shape public trust long before election campaigns officially begin.

Ultimately, the significance of Olawepo-Hashim’s statement lies less in immediate political outcomes and more in how narratives about democracy, fairness, and accountability will influence Nigeria’s evolving political landscape in the years leading to the next national vote.