The Department of State Services (DSS) has asked a court in Abuja to stop Professor Pat Utomi from making public speeches or holding any events connected to his new shadow government project.

On May 5, Professor Utomi, a well-known political economist, launched the Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government. He described it as a virtual group that would act as a strong and organized opposition to President Tinubu’s government. But the DSS believes this plan is against the law and could create security problems in the country.

The DSS has filed a case (FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025) asking the court to officially declare the shadow government illegal. Their lawyer, Akinlolu Kehinde, said they have reports showing that Utomi, who is not in Nigeria at the moment, plans to return on June 6 and start public rallies and road shows.

According to the DSS, these events are not just about freedom of speech. They believe the real goal is to cause public unrest and possibly violent protests, similar to what happened during the End SARS demonstrations in 2020. They are worried this could lead to destruction and even loss of life.

In the papers submitted to the court, the DSS said Utomi’s activities could disturb public peace and unity. They also mentioned a speech he gave at the University of Lagos on May 26, saying it could affect the court case and make tensions worse.

For these reasons, the DSS wants the court to give a temporary order that stops Utomi and his supporters from holding rallies, giving lectures, publishing materials, or making media appearances that support the shadow government. They believe this step is needed to protect the country and uphold the rule of law.

So far, the court has not made a decision on the DSS’s request.