Oct 24, 2026

Utomi Dares Tinubu: Defend Your Achievements in Live Debate If Proud

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in politics

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Professor Pat Utomi has challenged President Bola Tinubu to defend his administration’s record in a live presidential debate if he is proud of his achievements.

The political economist issued the dare in a Facebook post on Friday, stating plainly: “If Tinubu believes his government has performed well, let him defend his record in a live presidential debate.”

Utomi’s latest call builds on comments he made last week on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme. He argued that any leader seeking to continue in office who cannot stand side by side with other contenders and engage in open policy discussion is being “totally dishonest” to the people he claims to serve.

He said Nigerians deserve to hear directly from the President about the economy, security, and governance rather than relying only on statements from aides and spokespersons.

According to Utomi, a live debate would allow citizens to assess the administration’s performance and compare competing ideas for the country’s future.

The professor also urged Tinubu to go beyond limited campaign stops. He said the President should visit every state capital and some rural communities, shake hands with ordinary Nigerians, and demonstrate genuine connection with the people.

“That is how democracy works,” he added, citing South Korea’s experience where widespread public debates helped strengthen democratic accountability.

The challenge comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections. Tinubu, who is seeking a second term, did not take part in any presidential debate during the 2023 campaign cycle.

He recently indicated he would campaign in only about 12 states rather than criss-crossing the entire country.

Utomi, a long-time advocate of policy-driven politics and a supporter of opposition figures, maintained that leaders who want another mandate must be ready to submit their record to public scrutiny.

His intervention has added to growing calls for greater transparency and direct engagement between candidates and voters as the election approaches.

Whether the President will accept the challenge remains to be seen. For now, Utomi’s message is clear: if the achievements are real and worth defending, put them to the test in an open, live debate.