Victor EzejaAs Nigeria marks her 64th independence anniversary, former Secretary General of Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, renowned human rights lawyer and activist, Femi Falana, SAN, and other eminent Nigerians will gather at the formal launch of The New Tribe of Patriots to reflect on the way forward for the country’s social, economic and political development.
The New Tribe of Patriots is a think tank organisation founded by Prof. Pat Utomi and other patriotic Nigerians, to drive moral regeneration and advance the cause of good governance.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThis new social movement aims at correcting ills, and advancing social good in the country.
The event will take place on Tuesday, 1st October at Four Points by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos at 10 am.
The event will also feature other advocates of good governance as keynote speakers: Yemi Adamolekun, executive director of Enough is Enough (EiE); Dr Yunusa Tanko, Coordinator of the Obidient Movement; and Nana Sani Kazaure, former spokesperson of the Obi-Datti Campaign team.
A statement on the The New Tribe of Patriots website said it is “founded on the belief that the destiny of a nation lies in the hands of its citizens, and we stand as a beacon of hope and action, uniting patriots from all walks of life.”
Speaking earlier on what informed the decision to form The New Tribe of Patriots, Utomi, a Professor of Political Economy and also founder of the Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL), said that more than two decades after the return of democracy in Nigeria, the citizens have witnessed what he described as “Nigeria’s descent into further chaos and disillusionment.”
He highlighted the ills that have pervaded the social fabric of the nation, arising from bad political leadership, and how Nigeria has drifted from what stands as true democracy.
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“Today, Nigeria is far from a true democracy; instead, it is marred by ethnic division, political corruption, and economic hardship. The quest for power has overshadowed the notion of service, leading to widespread poverty and international disrespect,” Utomi stated.
In the midst of this social malaise, he emphasised that there was a need to mobilise a new tribe of patriots, “rooted in universal human dignity and a commitment to national unity.”
According to Utomi, “These patriots must embody a vision of delayed gratification, seeking immortality through lasting contributions to society.
“They must believe fervently in Nigeria’s potential, akin to Fela Durotoye, and strive for a reinvigorated political landscape, characterized by integrity and transparency.”
He added that the mission of The New Tribe of Patriots extends to reshaping civil society, empowering citizens to champion the common good and combating corruption.
“As Nigeria stands at a crossroads, the new tribe of patriots holds the key to its resurgence. By embracing a culture of accountability, promoting rational discourse, and fostering economic empowerment, they pave the way for a brighter future,” he added.
The event will also feature the 14 cohorts of the The New Tribe, panel discussions, signing of MoU on medical emergencies with three state governments and paper presentations.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
