Former presidential candidate and global energy executive, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has reportedly returned to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.
Speculations are that Olawepo-Hashim had quietly returned to the PDP some time ago; however, Wednesday (today) marked his first major public re-engagement with the party during a high-level engagement with the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) at the party’s Wadata Plaza headquarters in Abuja.
In his remark, Olawepo-Hashim expressed confidence that the PDP will overcome its current challenges and defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
While addressing the NWC, the former deputy national publicity secretary noted that despite internal wrangling, defections, and recent setbacks, the PDP remains the only political party with a truly national character.
“From the beginning, the PDP was built as a national platform. Since 1998, there has been a sizable PDP presence in virtually every polling unit across the country,” he said.
“This legacy remains alive, and it is that national spread that makes PDP the only credible alternative to the APC.”
Olawepo-Hashim dismissed fears about the PDP’s dwindling influence, arguing that its strength lies in the masses, not in political elites.
“Don’t be discouraged by those who have left. The real strength of any party is not in a few powerful individuals, but in its people — and the people are still with the PDP,” he declared.
Olawepo-Hashim Commends Damagun For Stabilising PDP
He also praised the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Ambassador Umaru Damagum, for his role in keeping the party together amid turbulent times.
“The wisdom and calm with which Amb. Damagun has held the reins of this party is commendable. He has kept the house standing when others wanted to tear it apart,” he said.
Looking ahead to 2027, the former presidential aspirant urged the PDP to present a credible candidate who embodies discipline, vision, and a strong commitment to security, economic development, and social justice.
“Nigerians are looking for a new kind of leadership. The PDP must offer that hope. With unity, discipline, and courage, the PDP will rise again, not just to win elections, but to rebuild Nigeria,” he stated.
Earlier in the day, Olawepo-Hashim also participated in a separate gathering of founding PDP members held at the NAF Centre in Kado, Abuja.
The post 2027: Former Presidential Aspirant Returns To PDP appeared first on Naija News.