A Federal High Court in Abuja has stopped Professor Pat Utomi and his associates from going ahead with their plan to set up a shadow government in Nigeria. The order was given today by Justice James Omotosho in response to a suit filed by the Department of State Services.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho described the idea of a shadow cabinet as unconstitutional and incompatible with Nigeria’s presidential system of government. He stated that while citizens have the right to associate and criticise the government, such rights cannot be used as cover for unlawful activities.
The court further held that the DSS acted within its powers to prevent actions that could endanger national security. The judge also commended the agency for bringing the matter before the court, saying the move was necessary to safeguard the country’s internal stability.
