The South West chapter of the Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement (GHSM), has thrown its weight behind Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, as its preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential election, insisting that the region is not swayed by Atiku Abubakar’s assurances of Yoruba inclusion.
Addressing journalists in Osogbo recently, the South West Coordinator of the movement, Alhaji Abass Olaniyi, said Atiku’s recent promises to the Yoruba people under his new party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), amount to little more than political sentiment.
“The South West is not swayed by mere words or emotional claims. Our people have always demanded leadership rooted in integrity, competence, and vision for a better Nigeria. That is why we stand firmly with Dr. Gbenga Hashim,” Olaniyi declared.
He described Olawepo-Hashim as a democrat with clean hands, a successful entrepreneur with global exposure, and a bridge builder capable of uniting the North and South. According to him, these qualities place the former presidential candidate above Atiku, who he said represents the “old order” of Nigerian politics.
Olaniyi stressed that the Yoruba are not interested in appeals based on marital ties or claims of extended family but in leadership that can drive reforms, rebuild trust, and address insecurity and economic decline.
“What more, Dr Hashim is running on the platform of a bigger politics, and the PDP, a platform bigger than Atiku’s ADC,” he added.
The GHSM coordinator further urged traditional rulers, civil society groups, youths, and political leaders in the South West to rally around Olawepo-Hashim, describing him as a candidate of conscience who embodies the region’s progressive values of justice, equity, and innovation.
“Our people have a history of championing progressive ideals. In 2027, that tradition will be upheld through unwavering support for Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim,” Olaniyi concluded.