Former presidential candidate and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has faulted the Federal Government’s handling of the nation’s worsening insecurity, describing it as “shamefully political and dangerously unserious.”
In a statement issued at the weekend, Olawepo-Hashim accused the government of responding to terrorist and bandit attacks with propaganda and partisanship rather than genuine action to protect citizens.
“This government treats the blood of innocent Nigerians like a campaign statistic,” he said. “Instead of confronting terrorists and bandits, they are busy issuing statements and blaming imaginary enemies. Governance is not propaganda.”
He alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was more concerned about securing defections from opposition governors ahead of the 2027 elections than ensuring the safety of Nigerians.
“Rather than uniting the country, the APC is pitching the South against the North,” he added.
US Watchlist Debate
Olawepo-Hashim said the recent move by the United States to consider placing Nigeria on a watchlist of countries of concern over religious and security issues was a direct consequence of the government’s failure to act decisively against terrorism.
“While Nigeria does not have a state policy of genocide or persecution against Christians or any particular group, the levity with which the government has handled terrorist activities should worry every decent human being, not only Americans,” he said.
Warning of Parallel Governments
He cautioned that if the current trend continued, terrorist organisations could establish parallel governments across parts of northern Nigeria before 2027, with the North Central region serving as the epicentre of conflict.
“The political elite are consumed by the race for the 2027 elections instead of stabilising the country,” he warned. “Too many politicians are dancing around 2027, ignoring the fire already consuming the nation. If this continues, the context for elections may not even exist when the time comes.”
Criticism of Economic Policies
Turning to economic issues, Olawepo-Hashim criticised the Tinubu administration’s fiscal direction, describing the rising taxes and levies as “punitive” and counterproductive.
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“When people can’t eat or live in dignity, social violence becomes inevitable,” he said. “You can’t tax hunger out of poverty; you only create more chaos.”
He urged the Federal Government to reform the national security architecture, tackle the economic roots of violence, and unite Nigerians behind a credible plan for peace and development.
“We must save Nigeria now. Delay is dangerous,” he declared, adding that “This is no longer about politics; it is about the survival of our nation.”
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
