Only Online Voices Challenge Nigeria’s Federal Government as Opposition Parties Falter – Pat Utomi Sounds Alarm

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

Lagos, Nigeria – Political economist and activist, Professor Pat Utomi, has raised serious concerns over the state of opposition politics in Nigeria, highlighting a worrying trend where formal opposition parties appear increasingly ineffectual, leaving only a few voices on social media platforms to challenge the ruling government.

Speaking at the David Oladipo Leadership Roundtable themed “Nigeria and Opposition Politics” in Lagos on Tuesday, Professor Utomi, represented by Dr. Chidi Okpaluba, President of the Centre for Africa Renaissance, Reformation and Development, described Nigeria’s opposition parties as largely silent and ineffective. He stressed that opposition is not merely about vocal criticism but entails rigorous intellectual engagement, policy design, and viable solutions that can compel the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to act.

“Opposition is not just about shouting,” Utomi said. “It requires designing policies, proposing solutions, and putting forward ideas that can compel the ruling party to act.” He added that most opposition parties have lost their voices due to internal crises and fear of persecution, leaving social media as the only platform where dissenting opinions thrive.

Dr. Oladipo, the convener of the event, argued that Nigeria is failing to derive real value from democracy because opposition parties have abandoned substantive engagement, reducing their relevance in governance debates. He warned that without a credible and active opposition, democratic accountability in Nigeria is under serious threat.

Electoral System Under Scrutiny

Professor Utomi also raised concerns about the Nigerian electoral system, asserting that the lack of reform undermines opposition parties’ chances of winning elections. “If the electoral system is not reformed, opposition parties cannot win elections in Nigeria,” he noted, emphasising that structural and procedural deficiencies favour the incumbent government and erode public confidence in democratic processes.

The roundtable participants expressed worry over the long-term consequences of a weak opposition, highlighting that continued silence and lack of alternative governance models could push Nigeria towards a de facto one-party state. They urged political parties to prioritise intellectual and policy-driven engagement rather than fear-driven inactivity.

Reactions and Public Debate

The event and Utomi’s statements have sparked widespread debate online. While some Nigerians lauded his clarity and warning, others criticised him, arguing that opposition failures are not only systemic but also a product of public apathy and politicians’ self-interest.

A number of social media users contended that many opposition figures defect to the ruling APC not out of fear, but due to financial and political incentives. “They do not fear persecution. They fear not being invited to the table,” noted one commentator, highlighting the transactional nature of Nigerian politics where principles often yield to personal gain.

Others pointed out that online activism, while vocal, does not translate into electoral influence. “The few voices on social media should also take note that there’s no polling booth online,” one user argued, reflecting a growing public awareness that digital engagement alone cannot challenge entrenched political structures.

Some commentators criticised the ruling APC, claiming that the party has entrenched practices that undermine democracy. “APC as a party doesn’t understand democracy. Their theme is always grab it and run away with it, even without knowing how to use power,” one social media observer noted. Others, however, cautioned against blaming current opposition failures solely on the ruling party, arguing that Nigerians must also demand accountability and participate actively in the democratic process.

Implications for 2027

The debate gains added urgency as political actors and citizens look ahead to the 2027 general elections. Analysts suggest that unless opposition parties strengthen their internal structures, develop clear policy platforms, and engage citizens beyond social media, their prospects remain limited. Public discourse increasingly stresses that online commentary alone cannot displace an entrenched political elite, particularly under an electoral system perceived to favour incumbents.

Professor Utomi’s warning serves as both a critique and a call to action: without active, courageous, and policy-oriented opposition, Nigeria’s democracy risks stagnation. His observations have reignited discussions about electoral reforms, political accountability, and the role of civil society in ensuring that democratic principles are not merely symbolic but functional.

As Nigeria approaches its next electoral cycle, citizens, analysts, and political parties will be watching closely to see whether the opposition can move beyond online commentary and translate critique into credible action, or whether social media will remain the sole bastion of dissent in the country.

Akahi News will continue to track developments in Nigeria’s political landscape and provide updates on opposition strategies, electoral reforms, and public engagement in governance.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org