Former presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo‑Hashim condemned political violence in Nigeria on Saturday after visiting activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore, who was reportedly attacked in Ekiti State. The former candidate posted his remarks on his X platform, warning that such attacks could exacerbate the country’s already fragile security situation.
Olawepo‑Hashim urged President Bola Tinubu to “call his team to order” and to curb any actions or statements that might provoke conflict. He stressed that Nigeria is already battling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and widespread insecurity, and cannot afford an additional burden of political violence.
“Nigeria cannot afford to add political violence to the general insecurity in the land.”
“Nigeria is already battling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and widespread insecurity. We cannot afford to add political violence to this burden.”
The former presidential contender highlighted his long‑standing relationship with Sowore, noting that the two have been comrades since the 1989/1990 struggle against military dictatorship and the campaign for democracy. He said Sowore’s recollection of being introduced to political activism at the University of Lagos reminded him of their shared history.
Olawepo‑Hashim welcomed a statement from a United Nations representative expressing concern over the Ekiti incident and called on other international partners to condemn political violence in Nigeria.
During the visit, Sowore affirmed that he remains undeterred by the reported attack and is determined to continue campaigning for genuine democracy. Olawepo‑Hashim reiterated that political disagreements should never be used as a justification for violence and urged Nigerians to uphold democratic values.
“President Bola Tinubu must call his team to order. Political leaders must exercise restraint and stop actions or rhetoric capable of provoking conflict. Those who recklessly provoke violence may not be the ones who bear its consequences.”
<small>Source: Vanguard News — read the original story there.</small>
