Political Economist Professor Pat Utomi, speaking at the 15th Anniversary celebration of the civil society organization Enough is Enough Nigeria (EiE), on Wednesday, the 10th of December, 2025, delivered a sharp critique of the nation’s political leadership, asserting that their performance has profoundly disappointed the populace.
EiE, is led by activist Mrs. Yemi Adamolekun, advocates for improved governance in Nigeria.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, themed “Footprints and Frontlines,” Utomi linked the country’s stagnant development to chronic leadership failures.
He stated plainly that the nation’s current trajectory is far removed from the optimistic dreams held by his generation decades ago. Recalling the hopeful visions of the past, Utomi remarked: “When we were students 50 years ago, dreaming of Nigeria’s future, we never imagined it would become this.”
Utomi suggested that this deep sense of disillusionment stems from decades of deficiencies in governance. He noted that the failings of the current political system echo ancient concerns about democracy, lamenting that: “Sadly, Socrates’ concerns about democracy remain relevant that it can sometimes become a contest of numbers rather than a contest of moral conviction.”
He also recalled a dark comedic thought from a 1996 interview where he joked about giving Nigeria’s political and military elite an island with all the oil resources on the condition of permanent exile noting that the humour still captures the intense frustration felt by many citizens today.
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While critical of the status quo, Utomi emphasized that the power for positive change ultimately rests with the people. He stressed that national renewal requires a significant shift in civic consciousness and mobilization.
He provided historical examples of moments when educated citizens prioritized national interest over personal gain, citing the formation of the Concerned Professionals in 1993 following the annulment of the June 12 election. He also recounted a 1995 meeting of the Integrity Movement, where only three out of 60 major business leaders agreed to a public declaration against bribery, posing the hypothetical: “Imagine if all 60 major business leaders had taken that stand. Imagine where Nigeria would be today.”
Concluding his remarks on the future of activism, Utomi issued a challenge to the younger generation: “I have contributed across two generations. It is now the duty of the next generation to determine its path.”