The Department of State Services has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking to block Professor Pat Utomi, a former presidential candidate under the African Democratic Congress, from proceeding with his alleged plans to organize rallies aimed at promoting a shadow government.
According to The PUNCH, a motion filed on Wednesday through its counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), the DSS urged the court to issue an interim order restraining Utomi and his associates from holding public gatherings, granting media interviews, or engaging in activities relating to the formation of a parallel government.
According to the agency, credible intelligence indicates that although Professor Utomi is currently outside Nigeria, he is scheduled to return on June 6 to launch a series of rallies and roadshows.
The DSS described the activities as a guise under freedom of expression and association to allegedly provoke unrest and undermine the authority of the current administration.
“This application is in the interest of national security, public order, and the integrity of the ongoing judicial process,” the DSS stated in its motion. “If not checked, these activities could result in civil disturbances and pose a threat to law and order.”
The agency cited its pending suit—FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025—which seeks to declare Utomi’s proposed shadow government unconstitutional. The case is scheduled for hearing on June 25 before Justice James Omotosho.
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In a supporting affidavit, the DSS argued that Utomi’s public engagements and proposed protests could incite widespread unrest similar to the End SARS demonstrations of 2020.
“Large gatherings inspired by such political rhetoric can easily spiral into chaos, leading to violence, destruction of property, and potential loss of lives,” the agency warned.
The DSS also referenced a speech delivered by Professor Utomi on May 26 at the fourth edition of the Topaz Lecture Series hosted by the University of Lagos Mass Communication Class of 1988 Alumni.
At the event, themed “Shadow Government: A Distraction or Necessity,” Utomi defended the concept, stating that even if the court ruled against him, his group would simply rebrand under a new name.
“Democracy allows for robust critique and alternative views,” Utomi had said at the event. “A shadow government is not an act of rebellion but a call for accountability. If one name is not acceptable, another will serve the same purpose.”
The DSS, however, insists that Utomi’s actions amount to an attempt to usurp constitutional authority and must be stopped to protect national stability.
“Unless the court intervenes, the respondent’s conduct may erode public confidence in the judicial system and undermine national unity,” the application stated.
Utomi, through his legal representative, Professor Mike Ozekhome (SAN), formally acknowledged the court process on May 20.
The court is expected to decide on the interlocutory injunction before the substantive case comes up for hearing later this month.
