By Luminous Jannamike
ABUJA — Accord Party chieftain and former presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has pledged to restore the naira to between ₦500 and ₦525 against the United States dollar if elected president in 2027, while blaming the current administration for worsening economic hardship in Nigeria.
Hashim made the promise on Thursday at a political gathering in Dawaki, Abuja, where supporters assembled to reaffirm support for his presidential ambition and hear details of his economic agenda.
He said his target exchange rate would be a central pillar of his economic plan, insisting that the current administration has failed to stabilise the economy.
“I will restore the value of the naira to between ₦500 and ₦525 to one United States dollar,” he said.
Hashim also accused the government of worsening living conditions through rising inflation, unemployment and declining purchasing power.
He further alleged political interference in opposition parties, claiming that elements within the government were attempting to weaken platforms such as the Accord Party, ADC and PDP ahead of the 2027 elections.
He warned against what he described as efforts to suppress democratic competition, insisting that no government can permanently override the will of the people.
“No individual can permanently suppress the will of the people or obstruct the course of democracy,” he said.
The Accord Party chieftain also expressed concern over internal disputes within his party, saying recent developments had raised questions about transparency in its leadership processes.
Hashim maintained that his political ambition is driven by a desire to improve living standards, noting that many Nigerian families are struggling to afford basic needs, including education.
He called for stronger investment in job creation, economic growth and youth development, describing them as essential to national stability.
Urging his supporters to remain peaceful and committed, Hashim encouraged continued participation in the democratic process despite political challenges.
