Olayiwola Matthew
The Department of State Services has clarified that it has no intention of arresting anyone over the proposed shadow government led by Pat Utomi, a former presidential candidate.
This was made known after the DSS filed a fresh application at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday.
The application is asking the court to stop Utomi and his supporters from holding public events, giving speeches, or promoting the shadow government idea in any way.
This legal step is part of an ongoing case challenging Utomi’s decision to form what he called a shadow cabinet under the Big Tent Coalition, which he announced on May 5 as a way to challenge the current government.
According to the DSS through its lead counsel, the agency is more interested in using the courts to settle the matter than in making arrests.
The agency said the courts should decide whether the shadow government plan goes against the country’s Constitution.
The DSS said it is concerned that Utomi’s public statements and planned activities could stir up unrest across the country.
They also stated that intelligence reports show Utomi, who is currently abroad and expected to return to Nigeria on June 6, intends to organize rallies and events that may lead to public disorder.
The DSS fears this could pose a threat to national peace and unity.
The suit, which was filed on May 14 and marked FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, claims that Utomi’s actions could be viewed as an attempt to take over powers that belong to the president.
The DSS is now asking the court for an order that would stop Utomi, his team, and anyone working with him from organizing or taking part in any event that promotes the shadow government until the case is fully heard and decided.
The DSS said it is acting based on its duty to help maintain internal peace and prevent actions that could lead to rebellion or challenge the country’s leadership.
It wants the court to guide whether any group or person can form any type of government outside what the Constitution allows.
The matter is still in court, and a final decision has not yet been made.