Why Utomi’s shadow government is a constitutional imperative for democratic renewal: A reimagining of civic leadership
By Big Tent Media
A civic innovation for troubled times
On May 5, Professor Pat Utomi initiated a groundbreaking move in Nigeria’s political landscape—he unveiled a shadow government under the Big Tent Coalition. This act has sparked a national dialogue long overdue: how can citizens hold their government accountable amidst fragmented opposition, compromised state institutions, and widespread public disillusionment?
The responses were swift and polarizing. The Federal Government dismissed it as an “aberration.” Critics questioned its legality. Yet, for many ordinary Nigerians, it signified hope—an alternative vision, a spark of civic courage in a climate steeped in resignation.
But perhaps the debate misses the point. The question is not whether a shadow government is formally recognized by the 1999 Constitution in a presidential system—it is not. The real question is whether it is lawful, necessary, and legitimate in the eyes of a public yearning for principled leadership. This requires sober, clear-eyed reflection.
The constitution protects civic accountability
Contrary to alarmist claims, the Alternative Mandate, embodied in this civic shadow government, is not unconstitutional. Instead, it is rooted in three fundamental constitutional protections:
• Section 39: Guarantees freedom of expression, giving every citizen, including political actors outside the corridors of power, the right to critique, comment, and propose alternatives to national policy.
• Section 40: Safeguards freedom of association, allowing citizens to form political or civic groups even if they do not operate as formal political parties.
• Section 22: Empowers the media and civil society to hold leaders accountable, ensuring governance remains transparent and responsive to the electorate.
Crucially, this shadow government does not claim executive authority. It passes no laws, controls no budgets, and commands no force. Rather, it serves as a repository of ideas, offering policy alternatives aimed at addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges. Far from treasonous, this is democracy in its essence—a dynamic interaction between the governed and those who seek to govern.
A response to governance fatigue
Nigeria’s governance crisis is not abstract—it is acutely felt in the daily lives of citizens, in markets, schools, roads, and ballot boxes. Insecurity festers. Inflation tightens its grip. Corruption evolves. Despair among the youth deepens. Meanwhile, opposition parties often remain silent or fractured, and public discourse gravitates toward political spectacle rather than substantive problem-solving.
This, not the formation of a shadow government, is the true aberration—the absence of credible, organized civic alternatives during a time of profound national distress. The Big Tent Coalition does not seek to usurp the state. By convening professionals, civic leaders, and grassroots voices to reimagine Nigeria’s future, it is bridging a critical gap. It aims to reinvigorate the soul of the republic, not undermine its foundations.
A blueprint, not a battle cry
The Alternative Mandate is not a call to protest; it is a call to propose. It does not incite; it instructs. It does not defy the Constitution; it embodies its spirit by providing citizens a platform to articulate their hopes, frustrations, and solutions.
To succeed, this initiative must meet high standards. It must avoid the pitfalls of political theatre and personal ambition. It must prioritize listening over speaking, service over signalling. Done right, it has the potential to redefine opposition in Nigeria—not as antagonism, but as collaborative nation-building.
A call for constructive engagement
To the government: this initiative is not a threat. It is an invitation—to engage, not entrench; to listen, not lash out; to lead with confidence, not fear. Strong governments are not weakened by ideas; they are strengthened by them.
To citizens: this is not a parallel government. It is a parallel imagination—a reminder that governance is a shared responsibility. Without a vision for a better Nigeria, we will struggle to build one.
To the media and civic institutions: scrutinize this initiative, certainly—but evaluate it on its merit, not merely its novelty.
Conclusion: Legitimacy beyond labels
Whether or not one agrees with Pat Utomi’s approach, the legitimacy of this moment cannot be ignored. It recalls an urgent need for seriousness in leadership, dignity in opposition, and a Nigeria that is not just governed, but guided.
What is being offered is not power, but principle. Not noise, but nuance. Not insurrection, but introspection. And in these challenging times, such an effort is not simply constitutional—it is indispensable.
