Court Declares Prof Pat Utomi’s Shadow Government Formation Unlawful, Illegal

Justice Omotosho issued the order while delivering judgment on a suit filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) against Utomi.

A former presidential candidate, Prof. Pat Utomi's plan to establish a shadow government in Nigeria has been declared illegal.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday declared the shadow government as illegal, unlawful, and unconstitutional.

The judge on Monday issued an order restraining Utomi and his associates from proceeding with their plan to establish a shadow government/cabinet in the country.

Justice Omotosho issued the order while delivering judgment on a suit filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) against Utomi.

He declared the concept of a shadow government/cabinet as unconstitutional and an alien concept to the nation’s presidential system of government.

The judge held that Utomi and his associates cannot hide under the rights of association and to criticise the government to engage in unlawful activities.

He commended the plaintiff for filing the suit and held, among others, that it was within the right of the DSS to take steps to prevent acts capable of threatening the nation’s internal security.