The Kwara State Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), on Wednesday, honoured prominent Nigerians, including a presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hasshim.
The award was part of the celebration of marking the 45th anniversary celebration of the chapel with Olawepo-Hashim ddedicating his Award of Excellence to ‘the Nigerian youth and all victims of institutional abuse’.
Delivering the message, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, who represented the recipient, told an audience of journalists, civil society leaders, and political figures that the award was not about personal achievement but about giving voice to those silenced by systemic injustice.
He urged journalists to remain fearless in holding institutions accountable.
Olawepo-Hashim described institutional abuse, particularly in the academic sector as a ‘silent killer of democracy’ that stifles innovation, silences dissent, and weakens trust in governance.
He recalled how the University of Lagos withheld his degree certificate after disagreements tied to student activism.
‘They could withhold a certificate, but not knowledge’, he said, explaining how the setback propelled him to establish Set and Sell, a political communication firm that laid the foundation for his success as a public relations strategist and entrepreneur.
He also highlighted the case of Abdulrazaq Hamzat, who was expelled and denied a Master’s certificate by the National Open University of Nigeria due to dispute over student association activities. Such actions, he warned, are ‘dangerous stain on Nigeria’s democratic credentials’.
‘Institutions should address intellectual issues intellectually, not through victimization’, he added.
The organisers said that Olawepo-Hashim was honoured, not only for his national vision but also for the humanitarian work of the Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim Foundation, which has impacted lives across Nigeria.
The anniversary event drew together journalists, political leaders, and civil society advocates, united in calls for stronger institutions that protect rather than oppress.
