The 45th anniversary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel in Kwara State on Wednesday became a platform for national reflection as presidential hopeful Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim dedicated his Award of Excellence to “the Nigerian youth and all victims of institutional abuse.”
Speaking through his representative, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, Hashim emphasized that the award was not a personal accolade but a call to give voice to those silenced by systemic injustice, earning sustained applause from journalists, civil society leaders, and political figures in attendance.
Backing his words with action, Hashim announced a cash donation to the Correspondents’ Chapel, highlighting his belief that a strong and independent press is a cornerstone of democracy. He urged journalists to remain fearless in holding institutions accountable.
Hashim described institutional abuse, particularly in the academic sector, as a “silent killer of democracy” that stifles innovation, silences dissent, and undermines public trust in governance. Citing his own experience with the University of Lagos, which withheld his degree certificate due to student activism, he noted: “They could withhold a certificate, but not knowledge,” a setback that inspired him to establish Set and Sell, a political communication firm.
He also referenced the case of Abdulrazaq Hamzat, expelled and denied a Master’s certificate by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) over student association disputes, warning that such practices are “a dangerous stain on Nigeria’s democratic credentials.” Hashim stressed that institutions should address intellectual disagreements through dialogue, not victimization.
Analysts present highlighted that Hashim’s actions and remarks reflect his long-standing advocacy for human rights, systemic reform, and accountability. The NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, representing 50 national media outlets, noted that Hashim was honored both for his national vision and the humanitarian work of the Gbenga Hashim Foundation, which has impacted lives across Nigeria.
The anniversary event drew journalists, political leaders, and civil society advocates united in calls for institutions that protect rather than oppress, with Hashim’s message adding renewed urgency to this call
