By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Professor of Political economist and public affairs commentator, Pat Utomi has condemned what he described as Nigeria’s recurring culture of impunity and disregard for constitutional order, alleging that political actors have repeatedly concealed the health conditions of serving presidents while governing in their names.
Utomi made the remarks in a statement posted on his X handle on Sunday, where he argued that the practice undermines democratic governance and amounts to a betrayal of the Nigerian people.
According to him, Nigeria has developed a dangerous pattern of allowing unelected individuals to wield power whenever a sitting president becomes incapacitated, instead of adhering to constitutional provisions.
“Impunity and disregard of decent order has become our way,” Utomi said.
He alleged that similar situations occurred during the final days of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and former President Muhammadu Buhari, claiming that people around the leaders concealed the true state of their health while continuing to exercise authority in their names.
“When Yar’Adua was dying people lied and governed in his name. They did the same with Buhari. They are doing so again,” he wrote.
Utomi described such actions as “high treason,” arguing that they violate the principles of transparency, accountability and constitutional governance.
The political economist also used the opportunity to reiterate his longstanding position on age and leadership, insisting that Nigerians above the age of 70 should no longer seek elective public office.
“This is why I say nobody over 70 should run for office. I am 70,” he stated, citing himself as an example of the standard he believes should apply to all political leaders.
Precise Post recalls that Utomi’s comment is coming amid renewed public debate over leadership, accountability and the health of public office holders in Nigeria. Although he did not provide evidence for his claims or identify the individuals he alleged were currently governing on behalf of an incapacitated leader, his remarks have reignited discussions about the need for greater transparency regarding the health status of elected officials and strict adherence to constitutional procedures whenever a president is unable to discharge the duties of office.
His intervention is expected to further fuel conversations on political succession, institutional integrity and the future of leadership in Nigeria, particularly as the country prepares for another election cycle.
