Former presidential candidate Gbenga Hashim has declared Nigeria’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains resilient against political intimidation. He dismissed alleged maneuvers by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as ineffective. Hashim emphasized Nigeria’s multiparty democracy is deeply entrenched.

Historical Commitment to Political Pluralism

Hashim cited Nigeria’s enduring pluralism since independence. Political power has never been monopolized, he stated. The First Republic featured multiple influential parties across regions.

“Nigeria has consistently embraced multiparty democracy,” Hashim explained. In the North, parties like the Northern Elements Progressive Union coexisted with dominant forces. Southern regions similarly hosted competitive party platforms.

“Our political sky contains countless stars,” Hashim observed. “No single entity dominates our democratic firmament.”

Parallels to Abacha’s Failed Agenda

Hashim drew historical parallels to General Sani Abacha’s unsuccessful self-succession plot. The late military ruler attempted to become sole presidential candidate across parties.

“We witnessed that plot’s collapse firsthand,” Hashim noted. He warned current efforts carry greater danger but predicted identical failure. “These machinations will meet disastrous ends.”

Grassroots Resistance Legacy

Hashim recalled his frontline role against military rule. “We resisted oppression domestically,” he emphasized. The struggle occurred within Nigeria’s borders.

He referenced participation in critical resistance moments. These included meetings during Nigeria’s democratic transition despite military threats.

Confidence in Democratic Resilience

Hashim expressed certainty history will repeat favorably. “Divine grace defeated Abacha’s agenda,” he stated. “That same power will thwart current anti-democratic designs.”