Professor of Political Economy, Pat Utomi, has expressed deep concern over the dismal state of democracy in Nigeria.
Speaking candidly during a recent interview on Arise TV, Utomi argued that the country currently lacks a genuine political party that adheres to the true principles of democracy.
According to the seasoned political economist, Nigeria has merely operated as a breeding ground for machine politics since its return to democracy in 1999. This approach, he asserted, revolves around the ruthless pursuit of power through any means available, coupled with the subsequent sharing of governance spoils.
Utomi emphasized the urgent need to overhaul the existing political landscape before the upcoming 2027 general elections to establish a functional democracy. In his words, “Nigeria is not a working democracy, and part of our efforts is to make our democracy work before people think about the next election. Countries don’t grow by waiting for the next electoral process; countries grow through the founding of political parties.”
Proposing a solution, Utomi disclosed his initiative to merge prominent figures from the 2023 general elections, creating a united front that transcends individual interests. The aim is to present a cohesive platform with a shared vision, selecting one capable leader to steer the nation forward in 2027.
“My view is clear on this matter; let’s build a great party that can make Nigeria better. When we then build it, the people from different social movements, in addition to the political parties that come into this one party, subscribe to certain values and ideologies of how you make a nation happen, can then present those who seem interested can go forward. This is what Nigeria needs and must have but shouldn’t be about some individuals advertising that they are the ones who should go forward; Nigerians will determine that,” he affirmed.
As Nigeria grapples with the challenges of a faltering democracy, Utomi’s call for a transformative approach resonates as a rallying cry for the establishment of genuine political parties committed to fostering the growth and prosperity of the nation.
