Prominent economist and political activist, Prof. Pat Utomi, has inaugurated a shadow government composed of members from various opposition parties.
Prominent economist Prof. Pat Utomi has launched a 60-member “Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government” comprising opposition figures to critique President Tinubu’s administration. The virtual inauguration on Monday aimed to provide alternative governance ideas, with Utomi stating it would “hold government accountable through constructive engagement.” The coalition includes members from Labour Party, PDP, and civil society groups.
The Federal Government swiftly rejected the initiative, with Information Minister Mohammed Idris calling it “an aberration” in Nigeria’s presidential system. “Our bicameral legislature already provides opposition platforms. This shadow government lacks legal backing,” Idris told The PUNCH, emphasizing Nigeria’s 26-year democratic journey shouldn’t include parliamentary-style shadow cabinets.
Political analysts remain divided, with some praising the move as innovative opposition strategy, while others echo government’s constitutional concerns. The development comes amid growing calls for robust opposition scrutiny of Tinubu’s economic reforms.