Utomi names ex-LP chief spokesperson for coalition

File Photo: Economist and political activist, Prof Pat Utomi

Former presidential candidate and political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi, has appointed the immediate past National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, Tony Akeni, as a spokesperson for his political coalition, The Big Tent, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Akeni will also serve as a member of the Elevate Nigeria Rapid Response Team under the Big Tent Independent Campaign Council.

The appointment letter, made available to journalists in Abuja on Saturday, was signed by Utomi, who said Akeni’s experience, public service record and communication skills informed the decision.

In the letter titled, ‘Appointment as Spokesperson, The Big-Tent Independent Campaign Council’, Utomi said the coalition was positioning itself as a platform to influence electoral outcomes and national policy direction.

He stated, “The Big-Tent is working to position itself as a purpose-driven, transformative platform that will not only help determine election outcomes in Nigeria but also become a key driver of policy direction, advancing a path to rapid economic growth and social harmony.

“A close observation of your engagement and public service indicates the communication judgment, credibility, responsiveness and commitment required to represent The Big-Tent effectively in public discourse and to contribute meaningfully to rapid-response coordination.

“I am therefore pleased to convey to you the decision of the leadership of The Big-Tent to appoint you as a Spokesperson of The Big-Tent Independent Campaign Council and a Member of the Elevate Nigeria Rapid Response Team.”

According to the letter, Akeni is expected to communicate the coalition’s approved positions, respond to emerging public issues and work with its leadership, media and rapid response teams.

The appointment takes effect upon written acceptance by the appointee.

In his acceptance letter, Akeni thanked the coalition’s leadership for the appointment and pledged to discharge his responsibilities in accordance with its guidelines.

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He said, “I am delighted to accept and humbly acknowledge your appointment. I shall undertake the two-pronged duties and responsibilities of the office in compliance with their guidelines, and strive to attain the values and milestones of stipulated assignments according to the enabling support, assets and tools provided for their undertaking.

“I humbly look forward to receiving your official manual outlining the Council’s approved positions on public affairs, policies, campaigns and communication protocols to guide me in carrying out my mandate.”

The Big Tent said Akeni’s appointment was based on his civil rights advocacy, governance ideology, labour relations experience and integrity credentials.

It also cited his strategic communication experience and more than 40 years of practice as a journalist in print and electronic media.

The coalition said it had operated since 2022 under Utomi’s leadership, with the support of other political stakeholders.

The appointment comes amid efforts by opposition figures and political parties to form alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Earlier this year, Utomi’s group began consultations with the Movement for Credible Elections and other opposition leaders under an initiative known as G-100.

The initiative was aimed at bringing opposition parties together to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress at the federal and state levels.

It also sought to build consensus around a single presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

The initiative was later renamed the Coalition for Democracy following a meeting of its Central Leadership Committee on November 4.