By Our Correspondent
Former presidential candidate and Accord Party chieftain, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has pledged to restore the value of the naira to between N500 and N525 against the United States dollar if elected President in 2027.
Hashim made the promise on Thursday while addressing a large gathering of party supporters in Dawaki, Abuja, where members reaffirmed their backing for his presidential aspiration.
Speaking at the event, the businessman and energy entrepreneur expressed appreciation to party faithful for their loyalty and commitment during the party’s recent primary processes, describing their support as a demonstration of resilience and courage.
He, however, criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu, accusing it of failing to tackle the economic challenges confronting the country.
According to him, Nigerians are grappling with worsening living conditions, rising inflation, shrinking purchasing power and increasing unemployment, which have placed many households under severe pressure.
Hashim alleged that rather than focusing on governance and economic recovery, those in power were more concerned with consolidating political influence.
He further claimed that government actors had interfered in the affairs of opposition parties, including the Accord Party, the Peoples Democratic Party and the African Democratic Congress, with the aim of weakening political alternatives ahead of future elections.
The former presidential candidate warned against actions capable of undermining democratic competition, arguing that attempts to suppress opposition voices often produce adverse consequences.
Drawing lessons from Nigeria’s political history, he maintained that no individual or administration could permanently frustrate the democratic aspirations of the people.
Hashim also expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of some members of his party’s leadership, saying recent developments surrounding his presidential ambition had raised concerns about transparency within the party.
He insisted that his political ambition was motivated by a desire to improve the welfare of Nigerians rather than personal gain.
The Accord Party stalwart lamented the economic hardship facing many families, noting that parents were increasingly finding it difficult to pay school fees and meet other basic obligations.
Recalling his early years, he said access to education was once more affordable, adding that the current economic situation had pushed quality education beyond the reach of many low-income families.
He stressed that any serious government must prioritise economic expansion, employment generation and improved access to education, describing them as critical pillars of national development.
Hashim urged his supporters to remain peaceful and committed to democratic principles despite the challenges facing the opposition and the country.
He expressed optimism that accountability and justice would ultimately prevail, insisting that those who misuse power would eventually answer to history.
The former presidential candidate concluded by thanking his supporters for their continued loyalty and confidence in his vision, assuring them that their commitment to what he described as national renewal would yield positive results.
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