A prominent political ally of the late elder statesman, Olusola Saraki, Oba Ajara, has endorsed the presidential ambition of Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim ahead of the 2027 general election.
The endorsement by the respected nonagenarian politician is already generating political conversations within Kwara State and beyond, especially as political alignments gradually begin to take shape ahead of the next presidential contest.
Oba Ajara, a 90-year-old veteran politician with more than six decades of active involvement in Nigeria’s political landscape, said his support for Olawepo-Hashim was based on the businessman’s leadership qualities, political courage and understanding of Nigeria’s challenges.
Speaking during a political gathering attended by influential leaders and stakeholders from across Kwara Central, the elder statesman described Olawepo-Hashim as “the only true opposition leader” currently capable of rescuing Nigeria from its social, economic and political difficulties.
“In my over 60 years in politics, I consider Dr. Gbenga Hashim the only true leader in Nigeria today with the capacity to rescue this country from its current state of helplessness,” Oba Ajara declared.
The veteran politician explained that his long experience in Nigerian politics had given him the ability to identify leaders with genuine commitment to national development and democratic ideals.
According to him, Olawepo-Hashim has consistently demonstrated courage, resilience and patriotism in his political engagements over the years.
He said the businessman possesses the vision and competence needed to reposition the country and restore confidence in governance.
Oba Ajara further praised Olawepo-Hashim’s longstanding involvement in national discourse, describing him as a bridge-builder with the capacity to unite Nigerians across ethnic, religious and political divides.
The endorsement event reportedly attracted politicians, community leaders, youth groups and supporters from different parts of Kwara Central, many of whom applauded the elder statesman’s remarks.
Political observers say the endorsement could boost Olawepo-Hashim’s visibility and strengthen his support base, particularly in parts of the North-Central region where political influence from respected elders remains significant.
Known for his involvement in business, public advocacy and politics, Olawepo-Hashim has over the years positioned himself as a vocal voice on issues concerning governance, economic reforms and national unity.
Although he has not formally emerged as the candidate of any major political party for the 2027 election, his increasing political engagements and consultations have continued to fuel speculation about his presidential ambition.
Supporters of the businessman believe his private sector background and political experience could offer an alternative leadership direction for the country.
During the gathering, speakers reportedly expressed concern over Nigeria’s current economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and rising cost of living, insisting that the country needs visionary leadership capable of addressing pressing national challenges.
Oba Ajara urged Nigerians to look beyond traditional political sentiments and support leaders with competence, integrity and practical solutions to the country’s problems.
He also warned against politics driven by personal interests and ethnic considerations, stressing that national unity and good governance should remain the priority in future elections.
The endorsement is particularly notable because of Oba Ajara’s longstanding political history and close association with the late Olusola Saraki, one of the most influential political figures in Kwara State’s history.
Saraki, widely regarded as the political godfather of Kwara politics for decades, played a major role in shaping political structures and leadership in the state before his death in 2012.
Analysts believe endorsements from respected elder statesmen could become increasingly important as politicians begin consultations and coalition-building ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political commentators also note that Nigeria’s opposition space remains fragmented, making endorsements and strategic alliances critical factors in determining the strength of potential challengers in the next presidential race.
Meanwhile, supporters of Olawepo-Hashim have welcomed Oba Ajara’s declaration, describing it as a major vote of confidence in the businessman’s leadership potential.
Some supporters argued that the endorsement reflects growing dissatisfaction among many Nigerians seeking fresh political alternatives capable of addressing the nation’s mounting challenges.
As political activities gradually intensify ahead of 2027, more consultations, endorsements and alliances are expected among politicians, stakeholders and interest groups across the country.
For many observers, Oba Ajara’s public endorsement of Olawepo-Hashim signals the beginning of wider political conversations that could shape the direction of Nigeria’s next presidential election.
