Pat Utomi: Engaging APC Data Boys Is an Insult to My Integrity

Professor of Political Economy and chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Pat Utomi, has criticised supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over alleged online attacks, describing engagement with those he called “APC data boys” as an insult to his integrity.

Utomi made the remarks in a series of posts on his verified X handle on Sunday, following criticism he said he received after speaking about the welfare and working conditions of Nigerian soldiers.

The economist had raised concerns about the remuneration and living conditions of military personnel, comparing their circumstances with those of their counterparts in the United States.

He also questioned what he described as the disparity between the earnings of soldiers who risk their lives in the line of duty and the financial benefits enjoyed by some lawmakers.

Utomi alleged that his comments attracted attacks from social media users whom he accused of supporting the ruling APC and benefiting from political patronage.

He said he examined the profiles of some of those criticising him and concluded that they were online supporters targeting individuals who expressed opposing views about the government.

“Then, some fellows benefiting from stomach infrastructure began to bash us. I took a quick look at their profiles, and it became obvious to me that they were APC data boys trolling anyone who dared to speak up,” he wrote.

The NDC chieftain said he would not waste his time engaging the accounts, insisting that Nigeria’s challenges required serious discussions rather than online exchanges.

“Engaging with any of them is an insult to my integrity,” he added.

Utomi did not provide publicly established evidence that the social media users he referred to were being paid by the APC. His description of them as party-linked online operatives remained his allegation.

In a separate post, the political economist accused some APC politicians of attempting to intimidate Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general election.

He urged citizens not to allow what he described as efforts to create fear to discourage them from participating in the electoral process.

“We have seen videos of APC politicians trying to intimidate Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections,” he said.

Utomi maintained that Nigerians could resist political intimidation by remaining united and actively participating in the election.

“Nigerians need to understand that these fellows are powerless when we stand united. Do not allow them to sow seeds of fear in you,” he stated.

He also called on eligible voters to turn out for the election and protect the integrity of their votes.

“Come out, vote, and defend your votes,” Utomi added.

The comments come amid heightened political exchanges between supporters of the ruling party and opposition figures as preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum.