Renowned political economist, Pat Utomi, has asserted that Nigeria falls short of being a functioning democracy due to the absence of genuine political parties. Utomi expressed this viewpoint in a recent interview on Arise TV, where he emphasized that the country’s political landscape predominantly revolves around the quest for power during elections.
According to Utomi, the prevailing situation in Nigeria is far from a working democracy, as the primary focus should be on building a robust democratic framework, rather than merely anticipating the next electoral cycle. He highlighted the critical role of authentic political parties in fostering national growth, emphasizing that Nigeria lacks such entities. Instead, he noted that the country has been operating with what he termed as “machine politics,” characterized by a sole aim of seizing power and sharing the spoils, since 1999.
Utomi disclosed that he has engaged in discussions with key figures in the 2023 general elections, including Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Engr Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Mr. Peter Obi, to explore the possibility of merging efforts for the greater good of the nation. Proposing the establishment of a formidable political party grounded in values and ideologies, he stressed the need for a transformation in Nigeria’s political landscape. Utomi envisioned a unified party that transcends individual interests, ultimately driven by the collective will of Nigerians.
In conclusion, Utomi emphasized the necessity of building a magnanimous political entity aligned with the aspirations of the populace, a cause that transcends personal ambitions and is determined by the Nigerian people themselves.
