The rising political influence of Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a key figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is reportedly creating unease within both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the PDP, especially in the South-West.
Observers say Hashim’s expanding support base and grassroots reach have disrupted long-standing political structures in the region, prompting both parties to rethink their strategies ahead of the 2027 elections.
In recent weeks, APC networks in Lagos and Oyo States have intensified rallies and media engagements in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Analysts see this as a response to Hashim’s growing appeal among young voters and professionals.
‘Supporters of President Tinubu, who initially believed the APC would enjoy a smooth dominance in the South West, are now sponsoring rallies and media offensives to counter Gbenga Hashim’s ideological surge,’ a source within the South West PDP told reporters.
Within the PDP, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is also said to be facing new political pressure as Hashim’s growing influence reshapes internal dynamics across the region.
While Makinde remains a key figure in Oyo, analysts note that Hashim’s rising profile has gained support across Osun, Ondo, Lagos, and parts of Oyo State, challenging Makinde’s control over the South West PDP bloc.
‘Makinde had assumed he would naturally command regional backing for the PDP presidential ticket, but the rising tide of Gbenga Hashim’s movement has made it clear that the contest will be intense,’ another party insider said.
Meanwhile, former President Goodluck Jonathan, who has reportedly been weighing a possible return to the PDP presidential race, is said to be rethinking his plans and may consider the African Democratic Congress (ADC) due to growing resistance from Hashim’s supporters within the PDP.
According to party sources, Hashim’s camp has made it known that if Jonathan returns to the PDP race, it would not be an automatic ticket but a competitive primary, reflecting the renewed ideological debate within the party.
Hashim, who has long promoted value-driven and people-centered politics focused on productivity, restructuring, and ethical leadership, is increasingly seen as a rallying point for Nigerians dissatisfied with both APC and PDP’s traditional politics.
Political observers believe his current momentum could reshape the 2027 political outlook, especially in the South-West, where his message of ‘ideological politics over personality cult’ is gaining wider acceptance among emerging political groups.