Professor of Political Economy, Pat Utomi, has said that the recent Federal High Court ruling declaring his plan to establish a “shadow government” in Nigeria as illegal will not deter him from speaking out or associating with fellow citizens.
The Department of State Services (DSS), in a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, had argued that Utomi’s proposal was intended to cause chaos and destabilise the country.
Delivering judgment on Monday, Justice Omotosho upheld the DSS’s argument, ruling that Utomi’s initiative posed a threat to Nigeria’s peace and security.
The judge stated that the 1999 Constitution makes no provision for the creation of a shadow or parallel government. Citing Section 1(1) and (2), Omotosho reaffirmed that the Constitution is supreme and binding on all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
Reacting in an interview on Tuesday, Utomi insisted that his move was not aimed at seeking constitutional recognition.
“I hope the lawyers will have something to say. We were not looking to find a place in the constitution of Nigeria. This is unprecedented. Whatever it is, we’re not looking for a place in the constitution,” he said.
Utomi stressed that the court’s decision would not silence him, adding, “As a citizen, I do expect that I will continue to be able to express myself. I also have the freedom to meet with other citizens to jointly express ourselves.”