A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered Professor Pat Utomi and his associates to halt their plan to establish a shadow government in Nigeria.

Delivering judgment on Monday, September 29, Justice James Omotosho, in a case filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), ruled that the concept of a shadow government or cabinet is unconstitutional and incompatible with Nigeria’s presidential system.

The judge emphasized that such an arrangement could mislead citizens and is not recognized under the country’s constitution.

Justice Omotosho further stated that Utomi and his associates cannot use the right to association or to criticise the government as a cover for engaging in unlawful activities.

He noted …

“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 also commended the DSS for filing the suit, affirming that it was within the agency’s rights to take measures aimed at preventing actions that could threaten the nation’s internal security.

Prof Pat Utomi’s stance

Before the Federal High Court’s ruling on September 29, 2025, declaring his proposed shadow government unconstitutional, Professor Pat Utomi had been vocal about the initiative. He described the “Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government” as a civic platform aimed at holding the government accountable, not as a rebellion or claim to executive authority.

Utomi emphasized that the movement was rooted in Nigeria’s constitutional rights to expression, association, and political participation.

Shadow Government

It is worth noting that a shadow government is an alternative group of leaders or officials who claim to oversee or monitor a country’s government, often mirroring the structure of the official government.