Renowned political economist, Prof Pat Utomi has issued a dire warning that Nigeria risks state collapse if the political class does not change its approach and priorities.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/First-Bank.jpg")
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Yetmoris1.jpg")
In an interview with Punch, Utomi lamented that while most Nigerians are currently in distress due to economic hardship, the political class continues to be disconnected, obsessed with state capture, vote manipulation and sharing of the “booty.”
He accused politicians of deliberately damaging key institutions like the EFCC, police and judiciary in order to continue perpetuating corruption and escaping accountability.
“Nigeria has been left prostrate by such transactions. What we need are leaders. People who believe in Nigeria, in the idea of this particular political party and social movement,” Utomi said.
The economist revealed ongoing plans to build a new ideological political party that can rescue Nigeria from its current path towards collapse. He has held talks with Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso and Adebayo Adebanjo though their participation is not yet guaranteed.
Utomi urged for serious national dialogue on cutting governance costs and restructuring the over-centralised federal system of government. He advocated for decentralised policing through creation of state police forces in order to tackle insecurity.
On his personal health battles, the professor thanked God that his cancer treatments have gone very well so far.
The International Law Association – Nigeria Branch 7th annual conference on public-private partnerships for sustainable infrastructure financing, April 4-5 in Abuja. Details: https://ilanigeria.org.ng/conference _________________________________________________________________ 
Tel: 08066192650, 08033739869, 08061133497, info@hybridconsults.com, hybridconsult@yahoo.com
