500 Lawyers in Nigeria are set to defend Pat Utomi as the Department of State Services, DSS sues Pat Utomi over his statement on shadow government proposal. The prominent political economist and former presidential candidate, Professor Pat Utomi, is receiving widespread support after the Department of State Services (DSS) filed a lawsuit against him over his shadow government initiative.
The legal action, which has stirred debate across the country, alleges that Utomi’s plan to create a shadow government threatens Nigeria’s constitutional order. However, many Nigerians have responded with solidarity, with some planning to raise a legal team of 500 lawyers to defend him.
DSS Sues Pat Utomi Over Shadow Government Proposal
DSS Sues Pat Utomi Over Shadow Government Initiative, Nigerians Mobilize 500 Lawyers in SupportDSS filed a suit on May 13, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, naming Professor Utomi as the sole defendant. The agency is seeking a court declaration that the establishment of a shadow government represents a direct attack on the Constitution.
Filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Akinlolu Kehinde, the DSS described Utomi’s plan as a deliberate effort to destabilize Nigeria. The agency argued that such a move undermines the legitimacy of the democratically elected government and poses a threat to national security.
In its court submission, the DSS contended that the shadow government initiative is unconstitutional and could create public confusion, disrupt governance, and incite political unrest.
Utomi Responds with Confidence and Gratitude
Reacting to the lawsuit, Professor Utomi expressed appreciation for the outpouring of support from Nigerians. In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, he said that people from various walks of life had reached out with messages of encouragement.
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“It’s energising (that) some want to put together 500 lawyers to defend me against the DSS,” Utomi wrote.
He added that the wave of solidarity over DSS Sues Pat Utomi reminded him of a more united and engaged Nigeria.
“I am heartened by messages of solidarity from across Nigeria on this shadowy business of chasing shadows of shadow cabinets. They remind me of the Nigeria I used to know. I want to thank all,” he stated.
Nigerians Debate the Relevance of Shadow Governments
The concept of a shadow government—often seen in parliamentary systems like the UK—has sparked mixed reactions in Nigeria’s presidential system. While some citizens support the idea as a means of political accountability, others view it as symbolic and ineffective.
Omoyele Sowore, activist and former presidential candidate, criticized the initiative. Speaking on Channels TV’s “Inside Sources”, he said the shadow cabinet proposal lacks practical value.
“How do you replace a shadow government with another set of shadowy governments?” Sowore asked.
He acknowledged that awareness-building initiatives are valid but dismissed the shadow government idea as politically inconsequential in Nigeria’s complex governance structure.
Legal Experts and Analysts Weigh In
Legal scholars and political commentators have analyzed the implications of the DSS sues Pat Utomi action. Some argue that as long as Utomi’s shadow government does not usurp state powers or promote violence, it falls within his constitutional rights to freedom of speech and political association.
On DSS sues Pat Utomi, many believe the government’s action reflects a growing intolerance for political dissent. They warn that using security agencies to suppress non-violent political expressions sets a dangerous precedent.
Civil Society and Public Reactions
Across social media platforms, many Nigerians have described the action as heavy-handed. Calls for the DSS to focus on more pressing security challenges rather than “chasing shadows” have trended under various hashtags.
One user wrote:
“If our democracy is strong, it shouldn’t be threatened by a symbolic group proposing ideas. Pat Utomi isn’t forming a militia; he’s forming a shadow cabinet.”
On the DSS sues Pat Utomi , Civil society organizations are now urging the judiciary to protect democratic freedoms and avoid giving room for political witch-hunts disguised as legal processes.
DSS vs Pat Utomi: A Test of Democratic Space
This case of DSS sues Pat Utomi has turned into more than a legal battle. It now reflects the ongoing struggle over freedom of expression, civic participation, and the boundaries of political activism in Nigeria.
Whether or not the court rules in favor of the DSS, the lawsuit against Utomi has triggered a broader conversation about the role of opposition voices in shaping Nigeria’s future.
If the judiciary affirms Utomi’s right to propose alternative governance ideas, it could open new democratic pathways. But if it rules otherwise, critics fear it may signal the shrinking of civic space in Africa’s largest democracy.
Conclusion
As the court proceedings begin on the DSS sues Pat Utomi, all eyes are on the Federal High Court to see how it will interpret the balance between national security and civil liberties. Meanwhile, Professor Utomi continues to receive widespread backing, not only from legal practitioners but also from Nigerians who believe that diverse political voices must be allowed to thrive
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