By Peace Udugba
A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an order restraining Professor Pat Utomi and his associates from proceeding with plans to establish a shadow government or cabinet in Nigeria.
Justice James Omotosho, delivering judgment on a suit filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), ruled that the idea of a shadow cabinet is unconstitutional and alien to the country’s presidential system of governance.
The court held that while citizens have the right to freedom of association and expression, such rights must not be used as a cover for unlawful activities.
He commended the plaintiff for filing the suit and held, among other things, that it was within the rights of the Department of State Services (DSS) to take steps to prevent actions capable of threatening national security.
Recall that economist and political activist, Pat Utomi, recently announced the formation of a shadow government intended to serve as a credible opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The initiative, which he described as a “national emergency response,” was launched virtually under the banner of the Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government.
Utomi said, “The recent spate of defections to the All Progressives Congress provides further evidence that all is not well with democracy in Nigeria.
“If a genuine opposition does not courageously identify the performance failures of incumbents, offer options, and influence culture in a counter direction, it will be complicit in subverting the will of the people.”
The group is expected to meet weekly to analyse public policy and recommend reforms. Utomi emphasised the need for integrity and transparency—qualities he believes are lacking in the current administration.
This shadow team must address issues of ethics, transparency, and integrity, which continue to challenge this government at every turn,” he said.
“Nothing is more urgent than tackling rising poverty across the country. Multinationals are shutting down, and millions are unemployed. Just two recent company exits show how poorly thought-out policies have weakened the economy
He commended the plaintiff for filing the suit and held, among other things, that it was within the rights of the DSS to take steps to prevent acts capable of threatening the nation’s internal security.
Recall that economist and political activist, Pat Utomi, last week announced the formation of a shadow government intended to serve as a credible opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The initiative, which he described as a “national emergency response,” was launched virtually on Monday under the banner of the Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government.
Utomi said, “The recent spate of defections to the All Progressives Congress provides further evidence that all is not well with democracy in Nigeria.
“It is imperative that if a genuine opposition does not courageously identify the performance failures of incumbents, offer alternatives, and influence political culture in a new direction, it will be complicit in subverting the will of the people.”
The group will meet weekly to analyse public policies and propose reforms. Utomi emphasised the importance of integrity and transparency—qualities he said are sorely lacking in the current administration.
This shadow team must also address issues of ethics, transparency, and integrity, which continue to challenge this government at every turn,” he added.
“Nothing is more urgent than tackling the rising poverty across the country. Multinational companies are shutting down, and millions are unemployed. Just two recent company exits illustrate how poorly thought-out policies have worsened the economy.
