The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a suit against political economist and former presidential candidate, Professor Pat Utomi, accusing him of attempting to establish a parallel government in Nigeria under the guise of a “shadow cabinet.”
In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025 and filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja on May 13, the DSS is seeking a judicial declaration that Utomi’s actions constitute a threat to the 1999 Constitution and national security.
The agency contends that the initiative amounts to an illegal attempt to undermine Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
The security agency, through its counsel Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), is asking the court to declare Utomi’s alleged shadow government unconstitutional, null and void, and to issue a perpetual injunction restraining him and his associates from proceeding with the project.
“The formation of such an unrecognized and unlawful authority poses a direct threat to the democratic institutions and unity of the country,” the DSS argued.
According to documents filed before the court, the DSS claimed to have tracked public statements, media appearances, and social media posts in which Utomi unveiled what he described as a “shadow government” composed of individuals assigned to various cabinet-style roles.
These included a policy delivery unit, an ombudsman and good governance office headed by activist Dele Farotimi, and a council of economic advisers.
The DSS alleged that Utomi’s plan could mislead citizens, stir unrest, and embolden separatist groups to form similar parallel authorities.
“It is a deliberate challenge to the legitimacy of Nigeria’s elected government and a violation of Sections 1(1), 1(2), and 14(2)(a) of the Constitution, which prohibit the operation of any governmental authority outside of those constitutionally established,” the agency maintained.
The plaintiff further stated that all efforts by the Federal Government, including engagements through the Ministry of Information, to dissuade Utomi from proceeding with the move had been rebuffed.
In a supporting affidavit, the DSS emphasized its constitutional mandate to prevent threats to internal security and uphold the sovereignty of the nation, adding that the existence of a self-styled alternative government could destabilize the polity.
“The defendant’s continued defiance, despite national security concerns, necessitates immediate judicial intervention,” the agency concluded.
The case is yet to be assigned to a judge for hearing.
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