Prominent economist and political activist, Professor Pat Utomi, has announced the formation of a shadow government aimed at providing a credible opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The initiative, launched virtually under the banner of the Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government, seeks to scrutinize government policies, highlight failures, and propose alternative solutions.
Utomi described the move as a “national emergency response” to the current administration, citing concerns over economic decline, rising insecurity, and governance failures. He emphasized that the shadow government would focus on key areas such as the economy, education, healthcare, infrastructure, law and order, and constitutional reform. The group, composed of members from various opposition parties, plans to meet weekly to analyze public policy and recommend reforms.
The Federal Government swiftly condemned the initiative, with Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, describing it as an “aberration” in Nigeria’s presidential system. He argued that the country does not operate a parliamentary system where shadow governments are recognized and insisted that opposition politics should be conducted within established democratic structures.
Despite the criticism, Utomi defended the initiative, stating that it was necessary to hold the government accountable and provide alternative governance strategies. He accused the administration of using political consensus to mask poor planning, particularly in the removal of petroleum subsidies.
The shadow cabinet includes a diverse group of professionals and public figures, with human rights advocate Dele Farotimi leading the Ombudsman and Good Governance portfolio. Other members include economists, legal experts, and policy analysts committed to offering viable solutions to Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
