The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied any intention to arrest Professor Pat Utomi or any individuals involved in the proposed shadow government, which has sparked national debate.
This clarification came from the DSS’s lead counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), on Wednesday following the filing of a fresh interlocutory injunction at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
According to Kehinde, the DSS has no interest in making arrests but has instead opted to seek constitutional interpretation through the courts.
He emphasized that the DSS, under its current leadership, operates within the bounds of the law and prefers judicial processes when addressing issues that could impact national security or the rights of its personnel.
“Our client is not interested in arresting anyone over this matter,” Kehinde said. “Rather, it has submitted itself to the court for interpretation of the Constitution regarding the legality of any form of ‘shadow government.’”
He added that the DSS’s actions are in line with its statutory duty to maintain internal peace and prevent insurrection or treasonable activities against Nigeria’s democratic government.
Kehinde also revealed that despite ongoing legal proceedings, Utomi has continued to make public comments and hold activities promoting the shadow government.
The DSS believes such actions could incite unrest and has, therefore, requested an injunction to prevent further rallies, public lectures, or any form of advocacy for the shadow government pending the court’s decision on the substantive case.
The new application seeks to bar Utomi and his associates from organizing or participating in any events or publications that support the establishment of a shadow cabinet, citing risks to public order and national unity.
Kehinde called on all parties, especially those before the court, to respect due process and uphold the rule of law while the legal issues are being addressed.
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