The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a ruling prohibiting Professor Pat Utomi and his associates from proceeding with plans to establish a shadow government in Nigeria. The judgment was delivered by Justice James Omotosho, following a lawsuit initiated by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Justice Omotosho ruled that the creation of a shadow government is unconstitutional and incompatible with Nigeria’s presidential system of governance. He emphasized that there is no provision in the Nigerian constitution that supports the formation of such a government, declaring the initiative as void.
During the proceedings, the judge referenced Section 1(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution, affirming its supremacy and binding nature on all citizens, regardless of political affiliations. He stated, “The Nigerian constitution makes no room for a shadow government. Therefore, any participation in any government which is unknown to law will be struck down by this court.”
The court’s decision followed a comprehensive examination of the novel issues surrounding the concept of a shadow government, with input from various legal experts invited to provide their perspectives. The judgment was highly anticipated, as it addressed the legality of Utomi’s proposed government structure.
This ruling effectively halts any further action by Utomi and his group regarding the shadow government initiative, reinforcing the necessity for adherence to constitutional provisions in Nigeria’s political landscape.
