The Accord Party national leadership disowned Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election on Wednesday [1].
The move creates significant uncertainty for Olawepo-Hashim's political trajectory and signals internal friction within the party's leadership in Abuja [2].
Party officials said the candidacy was not recognized because no presidential primary was conducted [1]. According to the party, the nomination fee was also submitted late, which invalidated the process [2].
As part of the decision to reject the candidacy, the Accord Party refunded the nomination fee of ₦50 million [1], [3]. The leadership said the party currently has no presidential candidate for the upcoming cycle [2].
The dispute centers on the legitimacy of the primary process. While Olawepo-Hashim had been positioned as the candidate, the national leadership said the necessary procedural steps were not followed. The refund of the ₦50 million [3] serves as a formal severance of the agreement between the candidate and the party organization.
This development occurs as Nigerian political entities begin organizing for the 2027 cycle. The rejection of a high-profile candidate based on technicalities regarding primary dates and fee submissions highlights the strict adherence to party bylaws required for official candidacy [1].
“The Accord Party disowned Olawepo-Hashim as its 2027 presidential candidate”
The rejection of Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim underscores the volatility of party nominations in Nigeria, where technical disputes over primary conduct and fee deadlines can derail a presidential bid. By returning the nomination funds, the Accord Party has effectively closed the door on a legal challenge based on financial commitment, leaving the candidate to either seek a different party or challenge the leadership's decision in court.
