A Federal High Court in Abuja will on Monday, September 29, deliver judgment in a case filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) against Prof. Pat Utomi, whom it accused of attempting to establish a “shadow government.”
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, centres on the “Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government,” which Utomi unveiled in May.
According to him, the coalition was created to act as a credible opposition, highlighting the shortcomings of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and offering governance alternatives.
But the Federal Government rejected the initiative, describing it as unconstitutional. The DSS argued that Utomi, a 2007 presidential candidate, was trying to usurp executive powers, warning that such a structure could embolden separatist groups and threaten national security.
In its final address on July 10, DSS counsel Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN) told the court, “We know how Boko Haram started, and even IPOB. We must not wait for crisis to happen before we act.”
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The agency sought a perpetual injunction restraining Utomi, his associates, and agents from pursuing the project.
Utomi’s lawyer, Mike Ozekhome, dismissed the allegations, insisting the group was simply a civic platform to scrutinise government.
“They are trying to chain Nigerians with shackles stronger than those that dehumanised slaves over 500 years ago,” Ozekhome said.
He added that the coalition had no executive, legislature, or judiciary, and urged the court to reject the suit as an attempt to silence dissent.
Seven amici curiae also weighed in. Joseph Daudu (SAN) said the term “shadow government” was unconstitutional, while Joe Gadzama (SAN) warned that granting the DSS request could stifle free expression.
Justice Omotosho reserved judgment in July after hearing all submissions. Monday’s ruling will decide if the DSS can legally halt the initiative or if it falls within citizens’ rights to question government policies.