DSS Files Lawsuit Against Pat Utomi
The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a lawsuit against renowned political economist and former presidential candidate, Professor Pat Utomi, over his alleged move to create a shadow government in Nigeria.
The suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja (FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025), accuses Utomi of attempting to form an unconstitutional parallel authority—an act the DSS claims poses a direct threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability and national security.
DSS Calls Utomi’s Actions Unconstitutional
According to the DSS, any form of government structure outside the 1999 Constitution is illegal. The agency is asking the court to declare Utomi’s shadow government null and void, and to issue a perpetual injunction stopping him and his associates from continuing the initiative.
The DSS argues that such efforts could incite unrest and weaken public confidence in the constitutionally recognized government.
What Utomi Proposed
Earlier this month, Pat Utomi unveiled what he described as a shadow cabinet, stating it was meant to offer a credible alternative to President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He cited the country’s economic hardship and security failures as reasons for creating the initiative.
Utomi claimed the move was a “national emergency response,” not a coup or rebellion. However, the DSS insists that the move is not only illegal but also dangerous.
What Happens Next
The court is yet to assign a judge or set a date for the hearing. Utomi has not officially responded to the lawsuit as of the time of this report.
