“IF HE CANNOT DEFEND HIS RECORD IN LIVE DEBATE, HE IS NOT FIT TO RULE” — UTOMI

Professor Pat Utomi has challenged President Bola Tinubu to a live debate to defend his record in office, declaring that a leader who cannot defend his record is not fit to rule.

The challenge comes as the 2027 presidential campaign officially kicks off, with the opposition demanding accountability from the incumbent, ValidViewNetwork reports.

THE CHALLENGE

Utomi, a renowned political economist and former presidential candidate, said Nigerians deserve to hear the President explain his policies and defend his achievements—or lack thereof—in a public forum.

He argued that a live debate would allow the President to address the concerns of citizens directly, rather than through prepared statements and spokespersons.

If Tinubu cannot defend his record, Utomi said, he should admit that he is not fit to rule.

THE BROADER CONTEXT

Utomi’s challenge reflects a growing demand for accountability in Nigerian politics. Previous presidential campaigns have featured debates, but incumbents have often avoided them or sent representatives, ValidViewNetwork reports.

For Utomi, a debate is not merely a political ritual. It is a test of leadership—a chance for the President to demonstrate that he understands the challenges facing Nigerians and has a plan to address them.

WHY IT MATTERS

The 2027 election will be contested in an environment of economic hardship and public frustration.

President Tinubu’s reforms—fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, tax reform—have been painful, and many Nigerians are still waiting for the promised prosperity.

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A live debate would force the President to confront those frustrations directly. It would also give voters a chance to compare him with his challengers.

A debate is not a cure for Nigeria’s problems. But it is a start. If the President believes in his record, he should defend it. If he cannot, Nigerians deserve to know why.