A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has struck down Professor Pat Utomi’s proposal to form a “shadow government,” branding it unconstitutional and invalid.
Justice James Omotosho, in his verdict, stressed that Nigeria’s Constitution remains the supreme law, and no political actor is permitted to establish governance structures outside its provisions.
“The Nigerian constitution makes no room for shadow government. Therefore, any participation in any government which is unknown to law will be struck down by this court. I hereby declared the formation as void,” the judge pronounced.
The Department of State Services (DSS) had earlier opposed Utomi’s plan, insisting it could jeopardize Nigeria’s stability. Their concerns were upheld by the court, which noted that such parallel arrangements could fuel insecurity and undermine democratic governance.
To ensure the matter was considered from all perspectives, the court invited eminent legal professionals as amici curiae to contribute expert opinions before delivering judgment.
The decision was reached after hearing submissions from DSS counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, Utomi’s lawyer, Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, and the invited legal minds.
Professor Utomi, a Political Economist and Management Expert, has long been active in Nigerian politics. However, the court ruled that his initiative contradicts the established constitutional framework.
The judgment reinforces the centrality of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999, particularly Section 1(1) and (2), as the foundation of governance.
0 Comments