Chaos Incoming? Pat Utomi Issues Dire Warning About Nigeria’s Future

Former presidential candidate, Pat Utomi, has warned that Nigeria risks becoming worse than Somalia in the coming years if the current wave of kidnappings, banditry, and terrorism continues unchecked.

In an interview with Punch, Utomi pointed out that Nigeria’s political culture is deeply flawed, as many individuals view politics as a quick path to wealth.

“Politics in Nigeria has become profitable, and that’s the root of the problem,” he said. “We need to make public office materially unattractive. Right now, those in power can abuse public funds at will — through security votes, inflated contracts, and more.”

Utomi lamented that politics has become a haven for criminals, as it offers far more financial benefits than legitimate professions.

“In most functional societies, public office is seen as a sacrifice. But in Nigeria, politicians are often wealthier than businessmen — and many will go as far as killing to get into office. Even a personal assistant to a local government chairman earns more than a professor of medicine. That’s how broken our value system is.”

He emphasized that the country’s inverted incentive structure has led to national decline.

“People no longer speak truth to power. The elite believe their own lies and focus on grabbing what’s left of the oil wealth. When even that dries up, the situation will worsen drastically. If bold action isn’t taken now, Nigeria may be in a state worse than Somalia within a few years. The warning signs — insecurity, lawlessness, and violence — are already here.”