A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered Professor Pat Utomi and his associates to halt their plan to establish a shadow government.
In a judgment delivered on Monday, September 29, in a case filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), the judge, Justice James Omotosho, declared that the idea of a shadow government or cabinet is unconstitutional and incompatible with the nation’s presidential system of government.
The judge held that the idea was inconsistent with the country’s presidential system and could mislead citizens.
He ruled that Nigeria’s constitution does not recognise any parallel or alternative government outside the one it provides for.
The judge held that Utomi and his associates cannot hide under the right of association and to criticise the government to engage in unlawful activities.
“Section 14(2)(c) makes no allowance for a shadow government. The defendant cannot use foreign constitutional models to confuse the people. Such a shadow government is hereby declared void,” the judge ruled.
He commended the plaintiff for filing the suit and held among others, that it was within the right of the DSS to take steps to prevent acts capable today threatening the nation’s internal security.
