Former presidential candidate and political economist, Pat Utomi, has revealed that he was unaware of Peter Obi’s decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), saying he only learnt about the move while outside the country. Speaking on ARISE News, Utomi said he had earlier advised political actors to remain in the ADC and pursue reforms from within the party.
Utomi, however, suggested that Obi’s camp may have acted quickly due to concerns over alleged political manoeuvres aimed at preventing a particular candidate from emerging on the party’s ballot. According to him, recent developments within the ADC showed that Obi’s exit may have been a strategic decision rather than a rushed political move.
He pointed to internal disputes within the party, including tensions involving party stakeholders, as signs that events were already heading toward crisis. Utomi said the unfolding situation made Obi’s decision appear “wise” in hindsight, adding that remaining in the party could have placed his political ambition at risk.
The political economist also criticised the state of internal democracy in Nigerian political parties, arguing that primary elections were increasingly controlled by party elites and political godfathers. He lamented that competent individuals were often sidelined while recycled political actors continued to dominate the system.
Utomi further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enforce stricter regulations against frequent party defections, warning that constant political switching weakens accountability and democratic growth. He added that Nigerians still deserved a credible political alternative despite the country’s economic and security challenges.
