Former presidential aide and political commentator Laolu Akande has downplayed concerns over a proposal by Professor Pat Utomi to form a shadow government, describing it as a harmless political idea rather than a national security issue.
Speaking on Friday, May 16, during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Akande addressed the Department of State Services’ (DSS) reported unease with Utomi’s recent comments, which suggest setting up a shadow cabinet to challenge the government through alternative policy proposals.
“I would advise the DSS people not to bother themselves too much. There are more important things for the DSS to deal with. Please, let’s do that. Just leave Utomi alone, he’s just having fun,” Akande said.
The DSS had reportedly hinted that such a move could be considered unlawful, but Akande argued the idea should be viewed through the lens of democratic expression rather than a threat.
“Whether it’s against the law, I wouldn’t be able to say that. I’ll let the lawyers do that determination. But I think it’s an expression of an idea,” he noted.
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Akande added that the initiative stems from a genuine concern about the lack of robust policy engagement from Nigeria’s opposition parties.
“The credit we can’t deny Professor Pat Utomi is that he understands there’s a serious vacuum, even in terms of contesting ideas with the current administration. The opposition, whether it’s PDP or LP, has completely lost that footing,” he said.
He further emphasised that Utomi’s plan is not aimed at undermining the government, but at enriching public discourse with constructive suggestions.
“He says it’s not to bring down any government, it’s just to provide ideas, specific ideas and alternatives. It seems to be somebody who understands that we have to contest ideas, even with a ruling party, which is not existing,” Akande stated.
Despite supporting the motive, Akande expressed scepticism about the project’s sustainability.
“I don’t see it as a very viable thing that is going to happen. I think Utomi is just trying to say, ‘Look, this space is empty, we can’t leave this in a vacuum.’ That’s what I see,” he added.