SSS Seeks Court Order to Stop Pat Utomi’s ‘Shadow Government’ Activities

The State Security Service (SSS) has filed a fresh application before the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking to restrain Professor Pat Utomi from holding public rallies, making media statements, or promoting his proposed ‘shadow government’ while a related legal case is pending.

The application, filed Wednesday, requests an interlocutory injunction to bar the 2007 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), along with his associates, from engaging in activities seen as promoting or establishing the “shadow cabinet.” These include protests, roadshows, media appearances, and any form of public sensitization.

The SSS claims that Utomi, currently abroad, plans to return to Nigeria on June 6 to begin these activities. The agency argues that if not restrained, his actions could pose a serious threat to national unity, public safety, and lawful authority.

“His proposed actions may ignite unrest similar to the 2020 End SARS protests, possibly resulting in loss of lives and property,” the agency warned in its affidavit.

The SSS also cited a recent public lecture at the University of Lagos — themed “Shadow Government: A Distraction or Necessity” — during which Utomi publicly defended the idea of a parallel government and suggested his group would continue under another name if challenged in court.

The agency says these remarks undermine the legal process, especially since Utomi has already been served with the originating summons and entered an appearance through his lawyer, Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), on May 20.

“Unless restrained, the defendant may foist a fait accompli on the court,” the application states.

Speaking to reporters after filing the motion, SSS counsel Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN) explained that the agency’s goal is not arrest but legal clarity.

“The SSS is asking the court to determine whether any form of government—regardless of what it’s called—can exist outside Nigeria’s constitutional framework,” Kehinde said.
“This is about preserving constitutional democracy and public order. Our client has submitted itself to the rule of law and wants the court to decide.”

Kehinde emphasized that the SSS, under its current leadership, has no intention of taking extrajudicial steps and is committed to due process.

The substantive case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, remains before the court, with no ruling yet on either the main suit or the new injunction request.