Renowned political economist and veteran statesman Professor Pat Utomi has introduced a pioneering initiative—Nigeria’s inaugural formal “Shadow Cabinet.” This development aims to provide a credible alternative voice to the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu.In a statement from the United States, Utomi emphasized that this shadow cabinet is not a form of rebellion or an attempt to undermine authority. Instead, it is a constitutionally inspired effort designed to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic processes by fostering constructive dissent and policy critique.
“This initiative is not about claiming executive power or establishing a parallel government,” Utomi clarified. “It’s about creating a platform for responsible civic engagement—a space where experts and citizens can analyze, evaluate, and propose alternatives to governmental policies.” He further announced plans to return to Nigeria on June 12th to advance this initiative.
The core of this effort is the formation of the Big Bridge Coalition, a collective of opposition groups including members from the Labour Party, Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), as well as civil society organizations, professionals, and academics. The coalition emerged from widespread concern over governance issues, increasing poverty, and declining democratic accountability within Nigeria.
Leading the initiative’s oversight on issues related to transparency and good governance is legal advocate Dele Farotimi, renowned for his human rights work. His team also features technocrats and reform-minded individuals such as Oghene Momoh, Cheta Nwanze, Halima Ahmed, Daniel Ikuonobe, Obi Ajuga, and David Okonkwo.
Additional specialists contributing to the project include Dr. Adefolusade Adebayo, Dr. Peter Agadah, Dr. Sadiq Gombe, Chibuzor Nwachukwu, Salvation Alibor, Bilkisu Magoro, and Dr. Victor Tubo. Their portfolios span critical national sectors such as education, healthcare, economic reform, youth empowerment, and security.
Utomi revealed that the shadow cabinet will convene regularly to scrutinize government policies, suggest practical solutions, and facilitate nationwide discussions on pressing issues. The ultimate aim is to transition public debate from unexamined loyalty to evidence-based, informed decision-making.
Addressing Nigeria’s economic and social crises, Utomi highlighted the need to combat pervasive poverty, revive collapsing industries, reduce unemployment, and restore public trust. “Nigerians deserve tangible results, not empty slogans,” he declared.
One of the coalition’s daring proposals is the decentralization of Nigeria’s policing system. Utomi advocates for a layered security approach involving community policing, state police forces, and a federal national guard to better respond to the country’s multifaceted security threats.
However, this initiative has faced skepticism from the federal government. Federal Information Minister Mohammed Idris dismissed the shadow cabinet concept, citing Nigeria’s presidential system and constitutional constraints.
“Nigeria is not a parliamentary democracy, and shadow governments are not recognized under our constitutional framework,” Idris stated.
Undeterred, Utomi asserts that structured, informed opposition is vital to democratic health. “Failure to challenge government shortcomings and offer clear alternatives would make us complicit in national decay. Democracy depends on choices—credible options must be available,” he affirmed.