The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a lawsuit against former presidential candidate Prof. Patrick Utomi at the Federal High Court in Abuja, accusing him of attempting to unlawfully usurp the executive powers of President Bola Tinubu by forming a so-called “shadow government.” The suit contends that Utomi’s actions threaten national security and constitutional order.
The DSS described the planned shadow government as an unconstitutional parallel authority that undermines the legitimacy of the democratically elected government. It warned that if left unchecked, such a structure could incite political unrest, foster intergroup tensions, and encourage other unlawful actors or separatist groups to establish similar parallel entities.
The security agency is seeking a court declaration that the shadow government and its associated “shadow cabinet” are null and void under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It also requests a perpetual injunction restraining Utomi and his associates from continuing to operate or promote any such unrecognized governmental structure.
According to the DSS, the Constitution vests sovereignty and governance exclusively in institutions created through democratic elections and recognized legal frameworks. The agency emphasized that Utomi’s shadow government lacks any legal basis and constitutes a grave attack on Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
The suit highlights that the DSS, as Nigeria’s principal domestic intelligence and security agency, is mandated to detect and prevent subversive activities that threaten national unity and peace. It noted that despite government efforts to dissuade Utomi, including public statements by the Minister of Information, he has persisted in promoting the shadow government concept.
Prof. Utomi had announced the formation of the “Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government,” comprising individuals from various opposition parties tasked with scrutinizing government policies and proposing alternatives. The initiative includes portfolios such as Ombudsman and Good Governance, Policy Delivery, and a Council of Economic Advisers.
The DSS expressed concern that the shadow government’s activities and public statements could mislead the public, weaken confidence in the elected government, and fuel disaffection. The agency insists that such actions pose a clear and present danger to Nigeria’s constitutional democracy and national security.
