Former presidential candidate and founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has declared that the PDP is poised for a national resurgence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
During a high-level meeting with the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) at the party’s Wadata Plaza headquarters in Abuja, Olawepo-Hashim stated, “The PDP will rise again.”
He acknowledged the party’s past challenges, including internal divisions and defections, but maintained that the PDP remains the only truly national political platform with the capacity to rescue Nigeria in 2027.
“Since 1998, the PDP has maintained a presence in virtually every polling unit in the country,” he said. “That nationwide structure remains intact and positions the PDP as the only credible alternative to the ruling APC.”
Dispelling concerns about the party’s waning influence, he said many defections were driven by political pressure and blackmail, and emphasized that the PDP’s grassroots support remains strong.
“Don’t be discouraged by those who left. A party’s strength lies not in a few powerful individuals but in the people—and the people are still with the PDP,” he said.
Olawepo-Hashim praised Ambassador Umaru Damagun, the Acting National Chairman, for steering the party through turbulent times with steadiness and wisdom.
Looking ahead to 2027, he urged the party to present a credible, visionary candidate focused on national security, economic recovery, and social justice.
“Nigerians are yearning for a new kind of leadership. The PDP must rise to the moment. With unity, discipline, and courage, the party will not just win, but rebuild the nation,” he added.
Earlier, Olawepo-Hashim joined other PDP founding fathers at a strategic meeting held at the NAF Centre in Kado, Abuja, marking his official return to the party.
Sources confirmed that although he had rejoined the PDP some time ago, he had deliberately kept his return low-profile until now.
