A prominent Nigerian professor of political economy has addressed speculation about his relationship with President Bola Tinubu, tracing their friendship back to the late 1990s and clarifying his approach to government criticism.
Professor Pat Utomi, a management expert and political economy scholar, responded to observations about changes in his public commentary regarding the current administration, according to a report by The Sun newspaper.
The professor emphasized his deliberate approach to discussing government policies. “I am very deliberate about how I talk about the government. I try not to make them personal,” Professor Utomi stated, addressing criticism about his commentary style.
He acknowledged awareness of public speculation about his relationship with the president. “I have seen the kind of things people are circulating, oh, he used to speak good about Bola Tinubu, he doesn’t do that anymore. It’s not about Bola Tinubu, this is the point,” the professor clarified.
Professor Utomi was emphatic about maintaining personal respect despite policy disagreements. “I have nothing against Bola Tinubu,” he declared, before recounting the origins of their relationship.
The academic provided specific details about their first meeting nearly three decades ago. “How did I meet Bola Tinubu? I was at an event in 1998 at the national theater when a certain gentleman walked up to me and introduced himself, I’m Bola Tinubu, you are my claim to fame,” Professor Utomi recalled.
He explained the context that led to their introduction. “How can I be? He said: During NADECO meetings in London, Chief Enahoro would always say who knows what Pat Utomi thinks about this matter? And I would say to him I’m in touch with Nigeria through the newspapers. That’s how we both became friendly,” the professor detailed.
Professor Utomi reiterated his historical support for the current president’s political career. “I did everything to contribute to both his becoming governor of Lagos and making his government in Lagos work. I have no problem with him. I consider him very much a friend,” he concluded.
The clarification comes amid ongoing discussions about the relationship between public intellectuals and political leaders, particularly regarding the balance between personal relationships and policy criticism.
Explore More News By Using The Button Below.
