Political economist Prof. Pat Utomi has announced that his plan to form a mega political party with like-minded individuals and groups is on track.
Utomi, who recently returned to Nigeria after a long stay in the United States, expressed his conviction that the current political parties have failed the people and are incapable of delivering the desired leadership, News About Nigeria reports.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, Utomi said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties have not added value to nation-building.
He believes that a new political order is necessary to disrupt the current system and provide impactful leadership.
He said, “It is precisely the reason I arrived in Nigeria yesterday to continue that work (the formation of mega party).
“I believe that the political party system in Nigeria has failed completely. Political parties are not democratic and they are not serving their purpose.
“Political parties and politicians of these parties cannot save Nigeria now, it is clear.
Utomi, founder of the Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL), noted that even well-intentioned individuals who join these parties often prioritise personal interests over the greater good.
The former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in 2007 identified parochial culture as a major obstacle to progress in Nigeria, which has consumed civic culture and influenced the mindset of politicians.
He advocated for a new political order that prioritises value-driven citizenship, integrity, work ethics, and respect for human dignity.
Utomi said he envisions a mega party that unites citizens and leaders committed to doing what is right to reposition Nigeria.
He plans to hold meetings in Lagos and Abuja to advance the formation of the party, which will comprise two cohorts of politicians: the ‘mea culpa’ cohort, comprising remorseful politicians who recognise their past mistakes, and the ‘new value’ cohort, consisting of individuals committed to new values and a better Nigeria.
The political economist hopes to make significant progress with the mega-party talks before returning to the United States.
He had said in January that he had already engaged in conversations with leaders of opposition parties and some presidential candidates from the 2023 general elections, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, to explore the possibility of forming a new party.
