Prof. Patrick Utomi has refuted Bayo Onanuga's claim that he and Peter Obi are behind a planned August protest. Utomi, currently in Washington D.C., denounced the accusation as unfounded and urged Onanuga to provide evidence. He emphasized his support for democratic protests, despite being unaware of the specific plans.
Prof. Patrick Utomi has addressed recent accusations made by Bayo Onanuga, who claimed Utomi and Peter Obi were behind a planned nationwide protest in August. In a statement released on July 20, 2024, Utomi expressed his surprise and disappointment at being linked to the protests, given his current residence and commitments in Washington D.C. He emphasized that while he supports the right to peaceful protest as a democratic tool, he was unaware of the specific demonstrations being planned until informed by a contact.
Utomi criticized Onanuga's claims as baseless and urged him to provide evidence to substantiate his accusations. He further highlighted his past involvement in protests, including those against the annulment of the June 12 elections and the EndSARS movement, as evidence of his commitment to civic engagement. He maintained that if he were involved in the upcoming protests, he would see it as a badge of honor rather than something to be defensively addressed.
The reaction to Utomi's statement has been mixed. Many on social media praised Utomi's clear rebuttal and his commitment to democratic principles. Supporters lauded him for standing up to Onanuga and reaffirming his stance on the importance of protest. On the other hand, critics questioned the motives behind the accusations and accused Onanuga of engaging in propaganda. Some expressed skepticism about the validity of Onanuga's claims and suggested that the protests would proceed regardless of the accusations.
Overall, the controversy has intensified debates about the role of protest in Nigerian democracy and the legitimacy of political accusations.
