2027: Defend your record in live debate or admit not fit to rule — Pat Utomi tells Tinubu

Political economist and Labour Party chieftain, Professor Pat Utomi, has challenged President Bola Tinubu to participate in live presidential debates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to SaharaReporters, Utomi made the remarks during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time, criticising what he described as declining democratic accountability.

“If you can’t stand side by side with somebody contesting for the same position and engage in policy discussion, you have been totally dishonest to the people you are offering to serve,” he said.

Utomi urged Tinubu to engage directly with Nigerians across state capitals and rural communities.

He cited South Korea’s democratic experience, arguing that public debates were essential to strengthening democratic institutions.

The former presidential candidate also expressed disappointment over Nigeria’s political development, accusing leaders of avoiding public scrutiny.

He questioned the country’s leadership culture, insisting that presidential candidates should defend their policies openly before voters.

Utomi maintained that democratic accountability required transparency, public engagement and direct political debate.