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Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a notable member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has described the All Progressives Congress (APC) as resembling a cult, lacking fundamental democratic values.

During an appearance on AIT’s Democracy Today and a press briefing in Abuja over the weekend, the former presidential hopeful criticized the ruling party for functioning without clear ideology or internal democratic processes.

He claimed that in the APC, decisions are made by only one or two individuals, with others expected to comply without question, making it operate more like a cult than a political organization.

Olawepo-Hashim blamed the APC for pushing Nigeria into economic difficulties and escalating insecurity across the country.

He pointed out that although the APC promised change upon coming into power, the nation’s GDP dropped from more than $570 billion in 2014 to under $300 billion by 2025. He highlighted the decline in GDP per capita from over $3,000 to less than $1,000 and the spread of insecurity beyond the north-east to other regions including the north-west, north-central, and south-east.

He contrasted the APC with the PDP, noting that his party still encourages open discussions and internal disagreements that influence decision-making.

“The APC functions solely as a platform for personal ambition and the pursuit of power, whereas the PDP, despite its internal disagreements and reconciliations, remains the only party where debates within the party shape real decisions.”

Referring to the recent show of support by PDP governors visiting Zamfara to back the national chairman, Umar Damagum, Olawepo-Hashim described it as a positive demonstration of unity.

He said this clearly reflects the PDP’s ongoing commitment to internal dialogue.

Recalling the party’s internal contests in 2003, he mentioned that former President Olusegun Obasanjo faced competitive primaries even as an incumbent.

“As a NEC member in 1999, I witnessed how the PDP held President Obasanjo accountable to the party. In 2003, despite being president, he faced primaries against leaders like Alex Ekwueme, Barnabas Gemade, and Abubakar Rimi. That is democracy.”

He concluded by urging Nigerians to call for stronger political institutions as the 2027 elections draw near.

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