The Department of State Services, DSS, has filed a fresh application before the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking to restrain Professor Pat Utomi from engaging in public rallies, interviews, or any related activities linked to his proposed “shadow government.”
The application, dated June 4, 2025, requests an interlocutory injunction to prevent Utomi and his associates from staging road shows, publishing media content, or holding public events that promote the shadow government until a pending suit against him is determined.
Utomi, who contested Nigeria’s presidency under the African Democratic Congress in 2007, had recently announced plans to inaugurate a shadow cabinet aimed at monitoring and holding the current administration accountable.
However, the DSS has raised alarm over the initiative, claiming it poses a significant threat to public peace, safety, and national unity.
In a statement signed by its lead counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Akinlolu Kehinde, the DSS alleged that intelligence reports showed Utomi plans to stage protests, media rounds, and sensitization campaigns upon his return to Nigeria on June 6.
According to the court filing, the DSS argued: “The planned road shows and rallies are capable of drawing large gatherings and inciting public disorder, similar to what occurred during the End SARS protests in 2020. These activities could lead to unrest, destruction of property, or even loss of life.”
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The suit, filed under reference number FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, seeks to legally curtail Utomi’s public engagement on the matter while the core case is being reviewed by the court.
The DSS added that Utomi had already made statements—through media platforms and public lectures—promoting the shadow government idea despite being aware of the ongoing litigation.
One key incident referenced by the DSS was Utomi’s speech during the fourth edition of the Topaz Lecture Series at the University of Lagos in May.
There, Utomi reportedly argued in favour of the shadow government and noted that even if the court rules against its current form, his group would continue under a different label.
The DSS emphasized that its move to the court was not to arrest Utomi but to uphold constitutional order and seek legal interpretation on whether an alternative government formation—under any guise—is permissible within the Nigerian Constitution.
Speaking to reporters, DSS counsel Kehinde stated: “We are simply asking the court to determine if such an initiative is lawful. Our client has chosen not to act unilaterally but to rely on the rule of law. The DSS, under its current leadership, remains committed to constitutional democracy.”
Kehinde noted that while freedom of speech and association are guaranteed, they must be exercised within the bounds of national security and legality.
The case continues to draw public attention as many await the court’s verdict on whether Utomi’s shadow cabinet violates the law or reflects a legitimate democratic practice.
Crediblenewsng.com
