Political economist Prof. Pat Utomi has backed Peter Obi’s decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as a timely exit from a flawed internal system.
Utomi spoke on Monday during an interview on ARISE NEWS, where he addressed recent political shifts ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
He said developments within the ADC showed that party processes were already tilted, limiting fair competition.
“With the benefit of hindsight… it was almost like a foregone conclusion that it would go in a particular direction.”
“So it was a pretty smart move on his part.”
Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, recently realigned politically amid ongoing coalition talks.
Concerns Over Party Democracy
Utomi said he was initially unaware of Obi’s plans and had earlier advised allies to remain within the ADC to test internal strength.
“I was out of the country when the move took place. I wasn’t aware of the plans.”
However, he said later developments confirmed concerns about internal party practices.
“I was also quite aware of games that were being played… a very undemocratic kind of process.”
He added that influential figures often shape outcomes regardless of voter preference.
“Party hierarchies and bosses” have turned primaries into “a make-believe democratic process.”
According to him, available polling data suggested Obi had strong chances if a transparent process had been allowed.
Push For Political Renewal
Utomi used the discussion to outline a wider initiative known as the “Big Tent,” focused on building a governance agenda beyond party lines.
“What we have done is continue this process within the Big Tent to do a manifesto for Nigeria.”
He said the effort seeks to identify credible candidates based on competence rather than party loyalty.
Utomi also criticised Nigeria’s political culture, describing it as overly driven by personal ambition.
“This obsession with power and public office is a disease.”
He called for stricter rules on political defections, warning that frequent party switching weakens accountability.
Meanwhile, he clarified that proposals for live transmission of election results came from the Big Tent initiative, not any single political party.
The plan involves multiple monitoring channels to improve transparency during elections.
Despite his concerns, Utomi said Nigeria still has the capacity for change if credible leadership and fair processes are allowed to thrive.
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