A professor of Political Economy, politician and human rights activist, Patrick Utomi, stated that he has lived a decent life without stealing government’s money.
This is as he said he would never seek any political office again in Nigeria.
Utomi made this statement on Friday in an interview on ‘Politics Today’, a programme on Channels Television.
The Pan Atlantic University professor also stated that he would not accept any appointment or contract by any Nigerian government.
He said, “Let me state it clearly, I will not run for public office. I will not accept an appointment, contract by any government in Nigeria. My only concern is the well-being of the next generation.
“I have lived my life decently without government money or stealing anybody’s thing. I want to take that away from people who talk nonsense like. ‘Oh, he is looking for contract.”
Recall that Prof. Utomi, on May 7, inaugurated a shadow government composed of members from various opposition parties.
According to Utomi, the “Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government,” launched virtually on Monday evening, will function as a credible opposition force, highlighting the failures of the Bola Tinubu administration, while offering ideas for better governance.
Human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, was named head of the Ombudsman and Good Governance portfolio.
Others appointed to the policy delivery unit include Oghene Momoh, Cheta Nwanze, Daniel Ikuonobe, Halima Ahmed, David Okonkwo, and Obi Ajuga.
Other members of the shadow cabinet include Dr. Adefolusade Adebayo, Dr. Peter Agadah, Dr. Sadiq Gombe, and Chibuzor Nwachukwu.
Also in the cabinet are Salvation Alibor, Bilkisu Magoro, Dr. Victor Tubo, Charles Odibo, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, and Eunice Atuejide.
Gbenga Ajayi, and Dr. Mani Ahmad, as well as Peter Oyewole and Dr. Omano Edigheji, completed the list
Utomi stated that the shadow government would hold weekly cabinet meetings to assess government policies and propose practical alternatives.
He identified immediate priorities as the stimulation of production, the formulation of a coherent economic growth strategy, decentralization of security, and constitutional reform.
According to him, the cabinet would also focus on providing alternatives in healthcare, education, infrastructure development, law and order, and policy monitoring.
“This shadow team must also address issues of ethics, transparency, and integrity, which continue to challenge this government at every turn,” Utomi said.
He said, “Nothing is more urgent than tackling the rising poverty across the country. Multinationals are shutting down, and millions are unemployed. Just two recent company exits illustrate how poorly thought-out policies have tanked the economy.”