Old Video of Pat Utomi Praising President Tinubu Sparks Online Reactions

An old video of Labour Party chieftain Professor Pat Utomi praising President Bola Tinubu has resurfaced on social media, stirring conversation and drawing mixed reactions in light of Utomi’s current opposition to the Tinubu administration.

In recent months, Utomi has been a vocal critic of the government, establishing a shadow cabinet he said would provide alternative policy directions to that of the current administration. He has also condemned what he described as the suppression of free speech under Tinubu’s leadership, calling such actions “an act of cowardice.”

Amid the criticism, the Department of State Services (DSS) has taken legal action against Utomi, accusing him of plotting to destabilise the country. The DSS filed a case at the Federal High Court in Abuja, alleging subversive activities linked to his political initiatives.

However, the emergence of a video showing Utomi speaking highly of Tinubu’s leadership has prompted public debate. In the video, Utomi credits Lagos State’s transformation to Tinubu’s vision, dating back to his time as governor starting in 1999. He recounts how Tinubu invited him to be part of his transition team and to contribute to cabinet retreats.

“What happened to Lagos was that it got a fellow called Bola Tinubu to be governor in 1999,” Utomi said in the interview. He praised Tinubu for his ability to manage internal conflicts within his administration and for his foresight in long-term planning. He cited Tinubu’s handling of tensions with his deputy at the time as an example of his leadership acumen, recalling a moment during a cabinet retreat when Tinubu’s calm response impressed him deeply.

Utomi also lauded Tinubu’s talent for selecting capable individuals for public office, attributing Lagos State’s steady development to that skill. He acknowledged disagreements within Tinubu’s circle over the choice of successors but admitted that Tinubu’s decisions eventually proved wise. “That successor turned out to do a decent job… the gentleman has my respect,” Utomi said.