Olawepo-Hashim presidential ambition gathers strength in Kaduna as PDP loyalists push for open ticket to challenge APC ahead of 2027 elections.
The Olawepo-Hashim presidential ambition is gaining momentum in Kaduna State, long regarded as the political heartbeat of Northern Nigeria.
Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is increasingly being seen as a unifying figure capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
His calls for inclusivity and renewal are striking a chord with grassroots supporters, party loyalists, and political stakeholders across the state.
During a recent gathering at the PDP state secretariat in Kaduna, the party chairman, Edward Masha, received members of the Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim Solidarity Movement (GOH-Front).
The group, led by State Coordinator Aliyu Mohammed, presented a petition urging PDP leadership to reconsider its decision to zone the presidential ticket to the South.
According to them, restricting the contest could weaken PDP’s chances of victory.
Masha acknowledged the petition but explained that the National Executive Committee (NEC) had the constitutional power to zone the ticket.
However, he clarified that zoning does not exclude aspirants from other regions from joining the race.
“That is NEC’s decision; I cannot go against it. But it was also said zoning does not preclude anyone who wants to contest. So, the field is open for anyone with capacity and interest,” Masha said.
The chairman also stressed that PDP remained the only political party in Nigeria with the nationwide structure to defeat APC.
“Coalitions are welcome, but no party has the spread and structure of PDP. Take it or leave it, PDP is the only party that can provide that kind of platform,” he stated confidently.
According to Masha, Nigerians have grown weary of APC’s leadership, pointing out that the ruling party had failed to deliver on its promises.
“Any Nigerian knows the people are not happy with this system. We were told to be patient with Buhari for eight years.
“Now, the same people are telling us to be patient again under Tinubu. Nigerians no longer want to hear APC’s name,” he said.
He lamented the worsening cost of living, saying that most families could no longer feed properly or afford school fees.
“Today, how many Nigerians can feed themselves, even twice daily? Look at the prices in the market compared to two years ago.
“The economy is bad; the cost of living is high. Nigerians will not reward APC with another term,” he added.
Speaking after submitting their petition, Mohammed of GOH-Front argued that the party should focus on maximizing its chances of victory instead of restricting candidates.
“The presidential ticket should be left open to every loyal Nigerian of this party capable of contesting. That is the only way PDP will be stronger,” he said.
He further emphasized that PDP should exploit APC’s weaknesses rather than copying its style.
“We shouldn’t think like them. We must look at their loopholes and take back our mandate. That is why we appeal for a reversal,” he explained.
Mohammed confirmed that the petition had been formally received by the state chairman and would be forwarded to the party’s national leadership.
Meanwhile, Masha expressed optimism about the PDP national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16.
He described it as a turning point for the party that would strengthen its unity and attract defectors.
“When credible leaders emerge after the convention, you will see more permutations.
Those who left the PDP will return, and even some from the ruling party will come back. Once that happens, no one will be able to stop us,” he predicted.
Observers note that Kaduna’s importance in Nigeria’s political landscape cannot be overstated.
The state is often described as the nerve center of Northern politics and is known for influencing national political directions.
The fact that the Olawepo-Hashim presidential ambition is drawing strong support in this region highlights the growing appeal of his candidacy.
Unlike some aspirants viewed as sectional leaders, Olawepo-Hashim has presented himself as a pan-Nigerian candidate with a vision for inclusive governance.
His focus on unity, fairness, and economic revival has begun to resonate, especially among youths, women groups, and professionals seeking fresh leadership for the country.
Supporters argue that his message of renewal represents the best hope for Nigeria’s recovery.
For many Nigerians, the failures of the APC administration have become unbearable.
The removal of fuel subsidies, rising inflation, insecurity, and unemployment have worsened the plight of ordinary citizens.
Community leaders at the Kaduna meeting echoed this frustration, saying these realities would shape voter behavior in the 2027 elections.
The Olawepo-Hashim presidential ambition is also appealing because of his ability to connect with grassroots communities.
His supporters in Kaduna described him as someone who listens, understands everyday struggles, and has practical ideas for rebuilding the economy.
Analysts believe that if PDP successfully manages internal divisions and presents a strong candidate, it stands a good chance of unseating APC.
However, the zoning debate remains a major test for party unity.
While some argue zoning preserves balance, others insist that merit and national acceptance should guide the choice of presidential candidate.
Still, optimism remains high within PDP ranks. The chairman’s assurance that the party has the structure to defeat APC reflects growing confidence in the opposition’s prospects.
“PDP is the only party with nationwide reach. Once we unite and rally behind a credible candidate, victory in 2027 will be within reach,” Masha reiterated.
For now, the Kaduna political climate suggests that the Olawepo-Hashim presidential ambition is gathering significant goodwill.
With continued grassroots mobilization and rising frustrations over APC’s governance, Olawepo-Hashim’s candidacy could reshape the race for 2027.
Whether PDP reconsiders its zoning policy or not, his growing support base in Northern Nigeria signals that he is becoming a force to reckon with in the nation’s unfolding political future.
