2027: You’re dishonest if you can’t face rivals in debate – Prof. Pat Utomi tells Tinubu

Political economist Prof. Pat Utomi has challenged President Bola Tinubu to participate in a live presidential debate ahead of the 2027 general elections, asserting that avoiding public discourse with political rivals amounts to dishonesty toward the electorate.

Utomi issued the challenge during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time, arguing that aspiring leaders must demonstrate transparency by confronting policy discussions directly alongside major contenders.

"If you cannot stand side by side with somebody contesting for the same position and engage in policy discussions, then you are being totally dishonest to the people you are offering to serve," Utomi stated.

"If President Tinubu cares about the Nigerian people, he should stand in every state capital and some rural areas and shake hands with the people. The President should stand side by side with major contenders and debate. That is how democracy works."

Drawing comparisons to international democratic frameworks, Utomi recalled lessons from South Korea's democratic evolution, noting that electoral authorities there emphasized public debates across streets, academic institutions, and media platforms as vital tools for accountability.

Expressing concern over the current political trajectory, Utomi criticized tendencies to shelter incumbent leaders from public scrutiny, stating that it was disheartening to see democracy deteriorate into spending time "nursing our leaders" while excuses are offered for their absence.