I’m ready for debate, says Olawepo-Hashim

ALLIANCE for New Nigeria (ANN) presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim said yesterday that he was ready for a presidential debate with President Muhammadu Buhari, ahead of next year’s election.

He said the President should participate in a live debate, where he will tender his stewardship.

Olawepo-Hashim told reporters in Lagos that Nigerians are warming up for the poll, adding that the exercise would determine the future progress and prosperity of the country.

He said: “I am ready for presidential debate with President Muhammadu Buhari and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. I won’t debate with the vice-president, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN). My running mate, and not me, will debate with Osinbajo. I am a presidential candidate.”

The ANN/Alliance for Peoples Trust (APT) flagbearer, whose party is in alliance with other opposition parties, also said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate will bring Nigeria backward, if elected as president.

He urged voters to decide between candidates, who will retard progress and a flag bearer whose leadership will give birth to a new Nigeria.

Olawepo-Hashim said the outcome of the 2019 poll will shock many people, stressing that Nigerians are prepared to take their destiny in their hand.