Professor Pat Utomi has unveiled a new mega platform formed by two categories of Nigerians aiming to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the presidency in 2027.
Utomi, speaking to journalists on Thursday, criticized the current political party system in Nigeria, describing it as undemocratic and failing to fulfill its intended purpose.
He highlighted the challenges faced by individuals striving to maintain integrity within Nigeria’s political structure, emphasizing that the country’s political landscape hinders the effectiveness of good governance.
Utomi stressed that the path to Nigeria’s redemption cannot be achieved through the ruling APC or any existing opposition parties. This sentiment underscores the motivation behind the collaboration of like-minded Nigerians to establish a new political platform ahead of the 2027 elections.
Listing the groups, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted Utomi as saying, “It is precisely the reason I arrived in Nigeria yesterday (Wednesday) to continue that work (formation of mega party).
“I believe that the political party system in Nigeria has failed completely. Political parties are not democratic and they are not serving the purpose.
“Political parties and politicians of these parties cannot save Nigeria now. It is clear.
“The nature and the structure of our politics is such that even good people when they enter these existing political parties, will play to their interests.”
Utomi emphasized the urgent need for a new order, highlighting how a parochial culture has overshadowed civic values in Nigeria, impacting the mindset of politicians.
He stressed the necessity of birthing a new political order to navigate Nigeria out of its current challenges. Additionally, Utomi emphasized the importance of both citizens and leaders taking the right actions to effectively reposition the country.
Utomi said, “Nigeria must be saved by its citizens and this is precisely what I am advancing.
“We are talking about value-driven citizenship with integrity, work ethics, respect for the dignity of people, and regard for labour.
“We are created for others; we are not created for ourselves. A tree does not take benefit from the shades it creates.
“We want Nigerians to develop that mindset. Right now, the mindset that Nigerians have is me, myself, and I.
“Self-love is so consuming and that is why Nigerian politicians don’t act in the interest of the people or the state. They act so narrowly in their self-interests.”
He announced plans to advance the formation of the mega party by conducting meetings in Lagos this week and in Abuja next week, culminating in a news conference.
Utomi disclosed that the coalition forming the mega platform comprises two groups of politicians: the ‘mea culpa’ and ‘new value’ cohorts.
He said, “The mea culpa cohort are politicians who have seen that what they did while in power had not helped Nigeria and are remorseful. And they are now willing to become part of the redemption initiative.
“There are also new Nigeria new value cohorts. This cohort will be working together, and they will include people from all these other political parties.”
According to the political economist, some elder statesmen would also be brought into the fold.
