Professor Pat Utomi, a renowned political economist and activist, has vehemently defended his recent declaration of a shadow government in Nigeria, asserting that it poses no threat to the existing administration of President Bola Tinubu. Utomi, facing legal action from the Department of State Services (DSS) over the initiative, argues that the government has misconstrued the concept of a shadow government, emphasizing its role as a crucial mechanism for democratic accountability, policy innovation, and the strengthening of democratic values and reform. He views the shadow government not as a subversive or parallel governing body but as a civic platform designed to promote issue-based governance, offer alternative policy proposals, and enhance Nigeria’s democratic framework through open dialogue.
Utomi delivered these remarks during the 4th Topaz Lecture Series, titled “Shadow Government: A Distraction or Necessity,” hosted by the University of Lagos, Mass Communication Department’s Class of 1988 Alumni Association. Addressing a virtual audience of media professionals, political analysts, and civil society representatives, he reiterated that the shadow government is not an attempt to overthrow or undermine the current government, but rather a means to foster constructive criticism and accountability. He highlighted the existence of shadow cabinets as a recognized democratic practice globally, advocating for Nigeria’s embrace of institutions that promote performance and transparency. Utomi further revealed that he initially proposed the idea of a shadow cabinet to former President Umaru Yar’Adua in 2008 and has maintained the cabinet, largely at his own expense, ever since.
The concept of a shadow cabinet has ignited public debate, legal scrutiny, and opposition from the Federal Government. Supporters of the initiative attribute its emergence to frustration with Nigeria’s recurring political dysfunction and the perceived absence of ideological leadership. The Federal High Court in Abuja recently ordered the service of court documents on Utomi, a former presidential candidate, in a lawsuit filed by the DSS concerning his alleged plans to establish the shadow government. Justice James Omotosho granted the ex parte motion filed by the DSS’s lead counsel.
Responding to questions about the legality of the term “shadow cabinet,” Utomi stated that the group would consider adopting a different name if the DSS lawsuit proves successful. He underscored that the group’s commitment lies not in the nomenclature but in upholding democratic values. Utomi emphasized the urgent need for a platform in Nigeria where policies can be debated and the government can be constructively challenged to improve its performance. His stance reflects a belief in the importance of vigorous policy discourse and robust engagement with the government to ensure effective governance.
Utomi has expressed concern about the dangers of anti-intellectualism and complacency within Nigeria’s political elite, cautioning that a failure to reform governance structures could lead to social unrest. He stresses the crucial role of strong institutions and active citizen participation in safeguarding Nigeria’s future. His advocacy for a shadow government stems from a deep-seated concern for Nigeria’s democratic health and a conviction that robust public discourse and alternative policy proposals are essential for the country’s progress.
The ongoing debate surrounding the shadow government highlights the tension between the government’s perception of potential threats to its authority and the advocacy for greater transparency and accountability from civil society actors. Utomi’s defense of the initiative underscores the importance of robust public discourse and the role of alternative perspectives in shaping policy and strengthening democratic institutions. The outcome of the legal challenge and the subsequent evolution of the shadow government will undoubtedly have significant implications for the future of political engagement and democratic accountability in Nigeria.
