By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Political economist and public affairs advocate, Professor Pat Utomi, has unveiled a shadow cabinet under the banner of the Big Tent Coalitiona, move aimed at presenting a structured, policy-driven alternative to the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
At a virtual inauguration ceremony on Monday, Utomi declared that the initiative was born out of what he called a “national emergency,” highlighting Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, economic instability, and drift toward authoritarianism.
Utomi said the shadow government, composed of professionals and civic leaders, would focus on providing constructive policy critiques and solutions across sectors such as security, healthcare, education, and economic management.
“If your ideas are adopted, don’t worry, what matters is that Nigeria wins,” he told the newly appointed members.
The federal government, however, swiftly rejected the initiative. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the shadow cabinet as unconstitutional and unnecessary, saying Nigeria’s presidential system does not recognize parallel governance structures.
He maintained that the National Assembly remains the legitimate platform for opposition politics.
Undeterred, Utomi accused the Tinubu administration of failing to address widespread poverty and an exodus of multinational firms, blaming flawed economic policies and governance failures.
“The government is focused on spin, not solutions. Multinationals are pulling out, jobs are vanishing, and millions are left behind,” he said.
The shadow cabinet includes figures like Dele Farotimi, Oghene Momoh, Cheta Nwanze, and Dr. Adefolusade Adebayo, individuals drawn from diverse backgrounds including civil society, media, and the professional sector. Utomi said the group would meet regularly to evaluate government policies and offer credible alternatives.
He also called for a complete overhaul of Nigeria’s policing system, advocating for decentralized, community-based policing, state police, and the creation of a Federal National Guard. According to him, centralizing security has only led to corruption and inefficiency.
Urging the group to become a moral and intellectual check on power, Utomi framed the shadow cabinet as a necessary counterweight in a political environment he says is plagued by self-interest and institutional decay.
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