A prominent political economist, Pat Utomi, has revealed that Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, has been involved with the African Democratic Congress from its inception. Utomi made this disclosure during an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ program, which was monitored by Media Talk Africa.
The revelation comes after Obi officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from the Labour Party, alongside other notable Southeast leaders, in Enugu on Wednesday. According to Utomi, Obi’s move was not a recent development, but rather a culmination of ongoing discussions aimed at uniting Nigerians under a shared vision. Utomi emphasized the importance of inclusion and collective effort in driving progress, stating that “real growth doesn’t take place without peace and a clear direction bought into by all working together.”
Utomi’s comments highlight the need for unity and cooperation in addressing Nigeria’s economic and social challenges. He cautioned against the notion that seizing power is sufficient to resolve the country’s issues, emphasizing that true progress requires a collaborative approach. The political economist also underscored the negative impact of divisiveness and exclusion on economic growth, noting that even a 4% GDP growth rate is insignificant without peace and a unified direction.
The development comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with various challenges, including economic stagnation, insecurity, and social unrest. The move by Obi and other leaders to join the ADC is seen as an effort to forge a united front and promote a more inclusive political landscape. As the country navigates its complex political terrain, the involvement of key figures like Obi and Utomi is likely to shape the trajectory of Nigeria’s political and economic discourse.