The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a restraining order against Professor Pat Utomi and his associates, effectively halting their plans to establish a shadow government in Nigeria.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment on Monday in response to a suit filed by the Department of State Services (DSS). The court ruled that the creation of a shadow government or cabinet is unconstitutional and contrary to Nigeria’s presidential system.
Shadow Government Declared Unconstitutional
Justice Omotosho declared that the idea of a shadow government or cabinet is “an alien concept” to the Nigerian Constitution and cannot be justified under the guise of the freedom of association or freedom of expression.
He emphasized that while citizens have the right to associate and criticize the government, such rights must not be used as a cover for unlawful or subversive activities.
“The defendants cannot hide under the right of association to carry out activities that pose a threat to the country’s democratic framework,” Justice Omotosho stated.
Court Backs DSS on Internal Security
In a significant endorsement of the DSS’s proactive role, the judge commended the security agency for seeking judicial clarification before any potential threat to national stability escalated.
The ruling affirmed the DSS’s constitutional authority to take preventative steps against actions that may undermine Nigeria’s internal security or constitutional order.
