From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Department of State Services (DSS) has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an order to restrain renowned political economist, Prof. Patrick Utomi, and his associates from conducting activities allegedly aimed at promoting a “shadow government” in Nigeria.
In an application marked FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025 filed on Wednesday, the DSS, through its legal team led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Akinlolu Kehinde, urged the court to issue an interlocutory injunction barring Utomi and anyone acting on his behalf from organising roadshows, rallies, public lectures, media publications, or any form of public enlightenment campaigns purportedly aimed at sensitising or promoting the objectives of a “shadow government” or “shadow cabinet.”
According to the application, the DSS stated that intelligence reports indicated that Utomi, a former presidential candidate, has concluded plans to return to Nigeria on June 6, 2025, to embark on public engagements—including protests, interviews, and awareness campaigns—designed to promote the concept of an alternative government structure.
“The planned protests, riots, and agitations, if not halted, may trigger mayhem, leading to possible anarchy, loss of lives, and destruction of property,” the DSS warned in a supporting affidavit.
The security agency added that the proposed activities pose a significant threat to public order, national safety, and the unity of the country.
Citing comments made by Utomi during the fourth edition of the Topaz Lecture Series on May 26—hosted by the University of Lagos Mass Communication Class of 1988 Alumni Association—the DSS argued that his remarks about the necessity of a shadow government could influence public perception and undermine the pending suit.
The DSS further claimed that Utomi had stated during the lecture that even if the court rules against him, his group would adopt a new name and continue with their objectives.
“The defendant/respondent (Utomi) is aware of the pendency of this matter before the court, having been served with the originating processes via courier as ordered by this Honourable Court,” the agency noted.
The DSS warned that failure to grant the application could result in the defendant’s actions rendering the case moot.
“It is in the interest of justice, national security, and the rule of law for this Honourable Court to grant this application,” the agency submitted, stressing that it is statutorily empowered to safeguard Nigeria’s internal security and preserve the authority of the Federal Republic and its institutions.
Justice James Omotosho has fixed June 25, 2025, for the hearing of the substantive suit, with Utomi listed as the sole defendant.
