Political economist Professor Pat Utomi has issued a strong declaration, stating he will withdraw his support for Peter Obi if the latter accepts a vice-presidential slot in the upcoming 2027 general election. This firm stance, made during a Channels Television interview, highlights Utomi’s vision for leadership and his concerns about the current political landscape.
Utomi’s primary concern revolves around Peter Obi’s presidential aspirations. He explicitly stated, “Peter Obi will contest for the presidency. The day he becomes somebody’s vice president, I will walk away from his corner. I can tell you that for a fact.” This indicates a clear boundary set by the political economist regarding Obi’s political trajectory.
What is Pat Utomi’s stance on Peter Obi accepting a VP slot? Pat Utomi has declared he will withdraw his support for Peter Obi if Obi accepts a vice-presidential position in the 2027 elections, emphasizing Obi’s presidential ambition.
Beyond Obi’s specific situation, Utomi also voiced significant criticism regarding the age of politicians seeking the highest executive office in Nigeria. He described the Nigerian presidency as a “retirement home” where individuals seek state-funded medical attention, which he deems unacceptable for a position demanding peak physical and mental acuity.
He further elaborated on the demands of executive leadership, arguing that it requires significant physical energy and sharp mental capacity. This led him to propose a concrete age limit for such roles.
Why is Pat Utomi against elderly politicians in the presidency? Pat Utomi believes the Nigerian presidency requires high physical and mental energy, making it unsuitable for individuals over 70, who he feels are using the office for medical care rather than effective governance.
Utomi clarified that his critique of older politicians in executive roles is not a blanket rejection of their contributions. He suggested that experienced individuals can still serve the nation effectively in other capacities, such as legislative roles, where the demands might differ.
His comments come at a time of significant political maneuvering, especially following Peter Obi’s recent alignment with the African Democratic Congress, signaling a period of shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
This declaration by Pat Utomi sets a clear condition for his continued backing of Peter Obi, emphasizing the importance of presidential ambition and fitness for office in Nigerian politics.
The debate around age and leadership in Nigeria is a recurring theme, and Utomi’s intervention adds a prominent voice to this ongoing discussion, particularly concerning the future of presidential candidates.
His perspective suggests a desire for a more dynamic and perhaps younger leadership cohort to tackle the nation’s challenges, moving away from what he perceives as a system that accommodates aging politicians seeking comfort and medical support.
The political economist’s statement is a direct challenge to the status quo and a call for a re-evaluation of who is best suited to lead Nigeria into the future, with specific implications for Peter Obi’s political strategy.
Ultimately, Pat Utomi’s position underscores a critical debate about leadership qualities, age, and political ambition within the Nigerian context, particularly as the nation looks towards the 2027 electoral cycle.
