The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled June 25, 2025, for the hearing of a lawsuit filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) against Professor Pat Utomi, over his alleged plans to establish a “shadow government” in Nigeria.
Justice James Omotosho fixed the date after granting a motion ex parte filed by DSS counsel Akinlolu Kehinde seeking permission to serve Utomi at his Lagos residence via courier following failed attempts to deliver court documents in person. Utomi will be served at No. 6, Balarabe Musa Crescent, off Samuel Manuwa Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.
In suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, the DSS is urging the court to declare Utomi’s proposed shadow cabinet unconstitutional and a threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability. Utomi, a professor of political economy and the 2007 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), is the sole defendant in the case.
The security agency contends that forming a “shadow government” undermines the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and poses a serious threat to national security, potentially inciting unrest and emboldening separatist elements.
“The planned ‘shadow government’ is not only an aberration but a grave attack on the constitution and an attempt to create a parallel authority not recognized by law,” the DSS stated.
According to documents filed, the DSS cited Utomi’s public statements and social media activity, including the unveiling of shadow “ministers” such as Dele Farotimi, Cheta Nwanze, and Halima Ahmed, under a “Policy Delivery Unit Team” and Council of Economic Advisers.
The DSS warned that such actions may mislead the public and erode confidence in the elected government, claiming it has attempted to dissuade Utomi through official channels, including public appeals by the Minister of Information.
Among the reliefs sought, the DSS is asking the court to:
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Declare the proposed shadow government unconstitutional, null, and void under Sections 1(1), 1(2), and 14(2)(a) of the Constitution.
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Issue a perpetual injunction restraining Utomi and his associates from establishing or operating any alternative governmental body.
The DSS emphasized its statutory role in preserving Nigeria’s internal security and constitutional order, warning that Utomi’s continued defiance presents a “clear and present danger” to national unity and democratic governance.
