Thu, 2 Oct 2025

 

Pat Utomi breaks silence after court declared his ‘shadow govt’ unconstitutional
 
By: Abara Blessing Oluchi
Thu, 2 Oct 2025   ||   Nigeria,
 

Professor of Political Economy, Pat Utomi, has reacted to a recent federal high court ruling declaring his plan to establish “a shadow government” in the country as illegal.

Reacting to the ruling, Utomi said the ruling will not stop him from speaking out or associating with fellow citizens.

Recall that the Department of State Services (DSS), in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, contended that the move by Utomi was intended to create chaos and destabilise the country.

Delivering judgment on Monday, Justice Omotosho upheld the arguments of the DSS that Utomi’s action portends danger to the peace and security of Nigeria.

The judge said he had perused the country’s Constitution, and no part supports the formation of a shadow or parallel government.

Citing Section 1(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution, Omotosho stated that the Constitution is supreme and binding on all citizens, irrespective of their political affiliations.

Reacting to the development, Utomi, during an interview on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm, said his initiative was not aimed at seeking constitutional recognition.

He said, “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.”

Utomi maintained that his civic rights remain intact despite the court judgment.

He added, “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.”

 

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