The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare has criticized economist Pat Utomi, suggesting that his recent condemnation of the government is a calculated attempt to secure political relevance or appointments.
The Presidency’s reaction follows Utomi’s dismissal of the Federal Government’s economic reforms as a ridiculous Ponzi scheme.
Dare interpreted this critique as a familiar maneuver, implying that Utomi uses provocative rhetoric to gain attention for committee positions and official recognition.
In a tweet, Dare suggested that Utomi’s history of public commentary is often at odds with the measurable outcomes of his past roles.
He dismissed the economist’s ponzi scheme label as a stunt lacking analytical depth, hinting that the administration is well aware of these tactics for seeking entry into the corridors of power.
Dare argued that criticism must be rigorous and supported by practical alternatives rather than serving as a tool for personal maneuvering.
Despite the friction, Dare reaffirmed the presidency’s commitment to its economic agenda, asserting that the current administration’s policies are designed to dismantle long-standing distortions.
He highlighted the removal of the fuel subsidy and the unification of exchange rates as bold, structural changes intended to restore market confidence and align Nigerian policy with international standards.
He pointed to increased revenue allocations to states and the stabilization of external reserves as early signs of fiscal progress.
Dare concluded by warning that unsubstantiated claims and tactics used to gain political visibility serve only to distract from the government’s stabilization efforts.
While maintaining that dissent is a vital part of democracy, the Presidential aide insisted that Utomi’s current approach adds no meaningful value to the national policy debate and is instead viewed as an attempt to undermine economic progress for personal gain.