Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled that the plan by a former presidential candidate, Pat Utomi, to establish a shadow government in Nigeria is illegal, unlawful, and unconstitutional the plan
The judge gave the ruling this Monday as he also issued an order restraining Utomi and his associates from proceeding with their plan to establish a shadow government/cabinet in the country.
Justice Omotosho issued the order while delivering judgment on a suit filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) against Utomi.
The judge held that Utomi and his associates cannot hide under the right of association and right to criticize the government, to engage in unlawful activities.
He commended the plaintiff for filing the suit and held, among others, that it was within the right of the DSS to take steps to prevent acts capable of threatening the nation’s internal security.