DSS Sues Pat Utomi Over Plan to Form “Shadow Government”

The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a lawsuit against Professor Pat Utomi, accusing him of trying to create a parallel government that could destabilize Nigeria.

Utomi, a former presidential candidate and political economist, is the sole defendant in the suit filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The case is marked FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025.

DSS: Utomi’s Plan Could Threaten National Security

The DSS claims that Utomi’s plan to form a “shadow government” is not only unconstitutional but also dangerous. According to the agency, such a move could lead to political unrest, intergroup tensions, and inspire other illegal or separatist movements.

A team of lawyers led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Akinlolu Kehinde filed the case on behalf of the DSS. They are asking the court to stop Utomi and his associates from continuing with the plan.

What the DSS Is Asking the Court

The DSS wants the court to:

1. Declare Utomi’s planned “shadow government” unconstitutional
2. Rule that any structure outside the Constitution is null and void
3. Issue a perpetual injunction to stop Utomi and his team from creating or operating a shadow cabinet or similar entity

The agency is relying on Sections 1(1), 1(2), and 14(2)(a) of the Nigerian Constitution. These sections affirm the supremacy of the Constitution and state that all governance must follow it.

“Shadow Government” Allegedly Already Formed

In a supporting affidavit, the DSS says it has gathered intelligence—including public statements and media appearances—showing that Utomi has already set up what he calls a shadow cabinet.

This unofficial body reportedly includes:

• Ombudsman & Good Governance Portfolio: Dele Farotimi

• Policy Delivery Unit: Oghene Momoh, Cheta Nwanze, Daniel Ikuonobe, Halima Ahmed, David Okonkwo, and Obi Ajuga

• Council of Economic Advisers

The DSS says Utomi’s statements about this group are designed to challenge the legitimacy of Nigeria’s democratically elected government.

DSS: Public Confidence at Risk

According to the DSS, Utomi’s actions could mislead the public, weaken trust in the government, and create confusion about who holds real power.

They warn that if this kind of parallel government is allowed to continue, it could embolden others to follow suit, including separatist movements.

Efforts to Stop Utomi “Ignored”

The DSS says the government has tried to dissuade Utomi through dialogue and public statements, including from the Minister of Information. However, Utomi has allegedly remained defiant.

“The defendant’s actions are an attempt to usurp or mimic executive authority,” the DSS said in its filing.

The agency insists that only institutions created by the Constitution and backed by democratic elections have the right to govern.

What Happens Next?

The suit, filed on May 13, 2025, has not yet been assigned to a judge or scheduled for hearing.