Ex-presidential candidate and business tycoon, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has formally confirmed his membership of the Accord Party and also declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election on the party’s platform.

Also, the African Action Congress has announced the resignation of the human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, as the party’s National Chairman, after Sowore emerged as the AAC presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

Speaking with journalists in response to enquiries, Hashim disclosed that his political structure had already commenced extensive grassroots mobilisation within the party across the country.

According to him, over one million supporters have so far been mobilised into the Accord Party as part of efforts to build a formidable political movement ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Hashim also reacted to comments reportedly credited to a governor, suggesting that the Accord Party would not field a presidential candidate in 2027.

Describing the remark as an overreach, Hashim insisted that no individual possessed the authority to determine who would become Nigeria’s next president.

The former presidential candidate further argued that political actors often made such pronouncements out of fear and political survival instincts within Nigeria’s highly competitive political environment.

He maintained that political power ultimately belonged to the Nigerian electorate and cautioned against attempts to predetermine the outcome of future elections.

FOLLOWING Sowore’s emergence as a presidential candidate, a statement by the party noted that Samuel Ajeigbe has been appointed as the new National Chairman of the party to replace him.

“Omoyele Sowore has officially stepped down as the National Chairman of the African Action Congress.

“The party hereby welcomes Samuel Ajeigbe as the new National Chairman of our great party,” the statement read.

The development marks a major leadership transition within the AAC as the party intensifies preparations for the 2027 elections.

Sowore was presented with the party’s flag amid cheers from supporters and delegates from different states across the country.

Speaking after accepting the nomination, Sowore said the AAC was founded to build a “new Nigeria” free from corruption, insecurity, and poor governance.

He commended party members for remaining committed despite political pressure and economic hardship in the country.

Sowore also criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress, accusing it of incompetence and attempting to manipulate public perception ahead of the 2027 elections.