Accord Party Rift Deepens as New Movement Declares Olawepo-Hashim 2027 Presidential Candidate

The internal crisis rocking the Accord Party has taken a fresh twist with the emergence of the Accord Alliance Movement (AAM), a political coalition that has openly reaffirmed its support for Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

The declaration comes amid growing controversy over the party’s presidential ticket, following an earlier statement by Accord Party National Chairman, Maxwell Mgbuden, who maintained that the party had not produced a presidential candidate because no aspirant fulfilled the requirements for the purchase and submission of expression of interest and nomination forms within the stipulated timeframe.

However, the newly launched Accord Alliance Movement rejected that position and insisted that Olawepo-Hashim remains the party’s legitimate presidential flag-bearer.

Speaking during the inauguration of the movement in Abuja, the Director-General of AAM, Hon. Light Adah Adoko, described the gathering as a significant milestone in the group’s political journey and the beginning of a nationwide campaign to advance what he called a “New Nigeria” agenda.

Adoko accused certain elements within the Accord Party of attempting to frustrate Olawepo-Hashim’s emergence as the party’s presidential candidate, alleging efforts to undermine the party’s internal democratic process.

According to him, the movement recognises Olawepo-Hashim as the sole presidential aspirant and believes he deserves the party’s ticket, warning that any move to deny him the nomination would amount to a betrayal of democratic principles.

“The Accord Alliance Movement was born out of necessity to defend democratic values and the aspirations of party members who believe in transparency, fairness and a credible political process,” Adoko stated.

The AAM leader also used the occasion to criticise the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing what he described as a vote of no confidence in the government’s handling of insecurity, economic challenges and the rising cost of living.

He argued that Nigerians were increasingly demanding a new leadership direction built on accountability, national cohesion and inclusive development.

Adoko portrayed Olawepo-Hashim as a consistent advocate of democratic governance whose political philosophy aligns with the aspirations of many citizens seeking meaningful change in the country.

He called on members of the movement and supporters of the Accord Party to remain united and focused on building a strong political platform capable of making a significant impact in the 2027 elections.

According to him, the Accord Alliance Movement will immediately begin nationwide mobilisation efforts aimed at expanding grassroots participation, strengthening party structures and rallying support for Accord Party candidates across the country.

Expressing optimism about the future of the coalition, Adoko said the movement was determined to evolve into a formidable political force committed to restoring hope, peace, progress and prosperity to Nigeria.

The inauguration ended with members reaffirming their loyalty to the Accord Party and pledging unwavering support for Olawepo-Hashim’s presidential ambition, which they described as central to their vision of a “New Nigeria” ahead of the 2027 general election.