Prof. Pat Utomi highlights citizen docility as Nigeria’s major challenge

Renowned political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi, has expressed concern about the docility of Nigerian citizens, emphasizing that many accept things unquestioningly. He urged Nigerians to adopt dynamic approaches to hold the government accountable, particularly concerning their safety and overall well-being.

Utomi made these remarks in Abuja during a national conversation on building a new value system in Nigeria, focusing on the theme, ‘A Public Sphere Conscious Movement – A Necessary Starting Point for the Journey to Redemption.’

He lamented that the primary issue in Nigeria is the passive nature of its people, emphasizing the need for a shift towards demanding accountability from leaders rather than accepting things without questioning.

Utomi stated, “But this is not working. We are creating poverty every day, and I think this is a moral burden. Look at what the Zambian President is doing. So we need to re-think what we want and hold the leaders accountable. The day that person shows up in that fancy car, walk away from him and throw eggs at him. We allow them to get away with what they are doing to us, so we need to have a new approach to holding them accountable.”

He also highlighted the erosion of pride and dignity among Nigerians, citing instances of ‘verbal terrorism’ in the name of politics.

Addressing the present administration, Utomi criticized the continuation of practices from the previous administration, expressing concern about the appointments of partisan individuals as Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), which he believes hinders the development of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for Nigeria’s democratic progress.

Dr. Sarah Jubril, former Special Adviser on Ethics and Values to former President Goodluck Jonathan, encouraged Nigerians not to lose hope in a better Nigeria that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens. Hajiya Nana Sani Kazaure, spokesperson for the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, emphasized the importance of citizens maintaining a positive outlook on Nigeria’s potential to overcome challenges and usher in prosperity.