2023: Buhari’s replacement must form government of national unity – Olawepo-Hashim

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has urged any candidate or party that emerges victorious in the 2023 general election to prioritise a government of national unity, saying none of the existing political parties can win in more than three geopolitical zones of the country.

He said the government must comprise persons willing to ensure the unity and progress of Nigeria.

Olawepo-Hashim, in a statement from his media office in Abuja, said the government must also ensure the security of lives and properties to bring relief to those plagued by bandits and other criminals.

“The truth is that I have reviewed some fantastic economic blue prints contained in the manifestoes of some of the candidates, but the fact remains that mobilising for Economic growth is an impossible task without peace, security and National cohesion,” Olawepo-Hashim said.

He added that Nigeria needs a non-partisan approach to solve the current issues, as was done after the Nigerian civil war in 1970. He also said the approach had gained traction after the annulment of the 1993 election as pro-democracy groups urged the winner of the election to form an inclusive government.

“We have been on this issue since 2019. The issue will be more in bold relief in 2023 as political dashboard is indicating that none of the parties can win in more than three political zones at their very best. That would be an indication of a deepening post-election division,” he said.

Recall that Olawepo-Hashim had called for the formation of a government of national unity in May before he withdrew from the race for APC’s presidential ticket.