The Convener of the newly announced Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government, Prof. Pat Utomi, has issued a rebuttal to critics—including the All Progressives Congress and Federal Government voices—who have dismissed the initiative as political theatre, unconstitutional, or even rebellious.

Speaking in a statement titled “In Service of Country, In Obedience to Conscience”, the political economist, on Friday, clarified that the formation of the shadow cabinet was neither an affront to the state nor a grab for power, but “a citizens’ platform for responsible democratic opposition.”

“Let me state this plainly: The Shadow Government is not a rebellion. It is not a claim to executive authority. It is not a parallel structure to the state.

“Rather, it is a citizens’ platform for responsible democratic opposition—an initiative rooted firmly in the Nigerian Constitution,” Utomi declared.

His remarks come amid mounting pushback from government officials and ruling party figures who have described the shadow government as “drama” and “a threat to constitutional order.”

But Utomi denied the narrative stating: “To label this a ‘drama’ is to miss the point: the real theatre is what millions of Nigerians are forced to perform each day just to survive.”

The Big Tent Shadow Government, he explained, emerged from deep concern about Nigeria’s deteriorating conditions

“We launched this initiative not out of bitterness, ambition, or theatrical impulse—but because our country is hurting.

“Millions are hungry. Prices are rising. Businesses are closing. Security is deteriorating. And hope is thinning,” it read.

Utomi stressed that the platform’s mission is to present policy alternatives, spark civic dialogue, and restore accountability in governance—voids he says are widening under the current political establishment.

“This is not a political party. It is not an electoral platform. It is a national conscience project—a space for voices that refuse to be silent in the face of national decline,” he said.

To government leaders and security institutions, the professor extended respect while offering a challenge: “This initiative is not designed to undermine your authority.

“It is designed to awaken our shared responsibility. We come not with violence or confrontation, but with ideas, dialogue, and discipline.”

Calling on fellow citizens to engage, not merely spectate, Utomi framed the movement as a moral duty in a time of national crisis.

It continued, “Let it be remembered that when silence became dangerous, some spoke. Not to incite, but to inspire. Not to divide, but to reform. Not to shame, but to awaken.”

In his closing, Utomi delivered what might become the rallying cry of the coalition.

“Because Nigeria must rise—not by decree, but by design. Not through coercion, but through courage. Not in shadows—but in truth,” it concluded.

Despite criticism, the Big Tent Coalition says it will press on, with shadow ministers soon expected to present sector-specific policy alternatives and organise citizen dialogues across the country. (The PUNCH: Text, Excluding Headline)