Labour joins forces with Gbenga Hashim as Democratic Renewal Movement takes off

Organised labour, civil society leaders, politicians, youth groups, women leaders, and pro-democracy advocates on Wednesday joined forces with Accord Party presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as the Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR) was formally launched in Abuja.

The event drew hundreds of participants from across the country, united by a shared commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting good governance, and expanding citizen participation.

Speaking on behalf of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, the Chairman of the NLC FCT Council, Dr. Steven Nabayi, said organised labour was working with Hashim because of his credibility, integrity, and long-standing commitment to democratic practice in Nigeria.

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He said Labour recognised him as a partner in advancing democratic values and protecting workers’ interests.

“We actually need such a movement because things are not going the right way in the country.

Nigerians need good governance, and wherever we see initiatives to promote good governance, we are part of it,” Nabayi said.

Addressing the gathering, Hashim said the Movement for Democratic Renewal was established to defend democracy, strengthen institutions, and ensure governance remains responsive to ordinary Nigerians.

He commended workers, youth groups, women leaders, and civil society actors for their commitment to democratic values and nation-building.

“Our democracy should be truly representative through free and fair elections. Workers must not be left behind,” Hashim said.

He warned that rising inflation and naira depreciation were eroding workers’ earnings, noting that wage increases lose value when purchasing power continues to fall.

He proposed policies to stabilise the currency, boost productivity, expand local production, and strengthen energy security through increased domestic refining capacity.