Pat Utomi reveals he rejected ministerial role offered by Yar’Adua

DDM News

Renowned Nigerian economist and political figure, Professor Pat Utomi, has shared a surprising revelation about his political journey.

He disclosed that he once turned down a ministerial appointment offered by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports.

Utomi made the revelation while speaking on governance and the importance of opposition voices in a democratic society like Nigeria.

He said the decision was rooted in his commitment to remain an independent critic of policies he believed were harmful.

According to Utomi, accepting the offer would have hindered his ability to speak freely and push for accountability.

He emphasized that the refusal was not because he disliked public office or service to the nation.

Rather, it was to preserve his voice as an advocate for reforms and good governance in Nigeria.

“The last person who asked me to be a minister was President Yar’Adua,” Utomi revealed during the discussion.

“He went the extra mile and spoke with me for two hours trying to persuade me,” he added.

“I told him I wasn’t against holding office. I have degrees in political science and all that,” Utomi explained.

“But I felt my role outside government was more important to Nigeria’s democratic and policy development,” he said.

President Yar’Adua led Nigeria from 2007 until his death in 2010 and was widely respected for his intellect.

He sought to include capable Nigerians in his administration and personally approached Utomi to serve in his cabinet.

Despite Yar’Adua’s efforts, Utomi stood firm in his decision to remain outside formal government roles.

Instead of declining outright, he nominated seven competent individuals he believed could serve in the administration effectively.

This action, Utomi said, reflected his desire to contribute to governance while upholding his personal principles.

Utomi’s recent political activity includes forming a shadow government to monitor President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The initiative aims to provide alternative policies and ensure democratic accountability from outside the formal government structure.

The shadow cabinet mirrors official roles and is modeled after systems in parliamentary democracies around the world.

Utomi’s approach emphasizes the need for strong civic engagement and credible opposition voices in a growing democracy.

He believes critics often lose their effectiveness when they are absorbed into government positions and official roles.

According to him, Nigeria needs independent voices to question and challenge the status quo without fear or favour.

Utomi has long been involved in academia, civil society, and politics, always championing reform and national development.

His rejection of the ministerial role is now seen as a bold stand for integrity and civic responsibility.

As the country faces ongoing political and economic challenges, Utomi’s model offers an alternative vision for leadership.

Leadership, he believes, should not only be about holding office but also about influencing national direction constructively.

This revelation affirms his lifelong commitment to Nigeria’s progress and the promotion of transparent, accountable governance.

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