ADC is credible alternative Nigeria deserves, says Utomi

Professor of political economy, Pat Utomi, has unveiled a shadow cabinet under the ‘Big Tent’ coalition as part of a broader declaration that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) represents a credible alternative platform for Nigerians seeking value-based leadership.

The announcement followed a two-day retreat in Abuja, where Utomi said the initiative aims to offer expert policy alternatives to the federal government.

He introduced members of the shadow cabinet, including Nana Kazaure (information), Riwang Pam (security), Nike Omola (women and gender development), and Peter Agada (infrastructure). Utomi clarified that the shadow cabinet will not compete with the federal government but will provide critical reviews of government policies to help improve governance.

Utomi criticized the current practice of lawmakers executing projects, saying it weakens their ability to provide oversight. “Legislators were not elected to execute projects,” he said. “When they do, they become beggars to the executive and fail in their duty of checks and balances.”

Reflecting on past efforts, he noted that he proposed a similar shadow cabinet to the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2007 but turned down an invitation to join his administration. He blamed Nigeria’s development setbacks on a lack of political will and national strategy.

Utomi cited the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway as an example of unilateral policymaking and called for reforms in agriculture beyond the use of traditional tools. He also advocated for the establishment of state police to address Nigeria’s deepening security challenges.

He said the coalition would continue to evolve through value-driven projects, focused on economic inclusion and accountable governance. The goal, he added, is to give Nigerians an informed choice beyond the ruling party.

In May, Utomi officially launched the shadow government under The Big Tent coalition. However, the Department of State Services (DSS) filed a court suit against the initiative, claiming it was unconstitutional and accusing Utomi of planning disruptive protests.