Utomi opens talks with Atiku and Obi about forming a new party to challenge the APC in 2027

ECONOMIST and former presidential candidate Professor Pat Utomi has revealed that he is working with other political heavyweights in the country to form a new party that can challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)  in 2027.

Professor Utomi, who ran for president in 2011, has pointed out that he is in talks with the likes of Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso to form a mega party in the run-up to the next election. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme, Professor Utomi said that the envisioned political entity would symbolise a fresh beginning, characterised by innovative ideas and a well-defined agenda.

“I have engaged in discussions with several presidential candidates from the previous election about the direction we are taking. I’ve conversed with Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Engineer Rabiu Kwankwaso, Peter Gregory Obi, as well as individuals like Ralph Okey Nwosu of the ADC, among others who form the foundational support,” Professor Utomi added.

Highlighting the need for a fresh start, Professor Utomi emphasised that Nigeria has lacked a genuine political party since 1999, underscoring that existing platforms primarily serve as conduits for machine politics aimed at securing power for the purpose of state capture. He added that the envisioned political party will seek to break from this tradition, focusing on a transparent structure where members understand their roles and responsibilities.

Professor Utomi said he envisions a party with a well-defined agenda and plan, ensuring that everyone, from high-ranking officials to lower-level officers, comprehend their tasks to advance Nigeria to a specific developmental level. He added that in essence, the goal is to establish a political party grounded in clear principles and a commitment to governance, offering a departure from the prevalent trend of platform creation for power consolidation purposes.