Utomi
Defiant Pat Utomi Vows to Resist ‘Death of Democracy’ in Nigeria After DSS Suit
Renowned political economist Professor Pat Utomi has responded defiantly after the Department of State Services (DSS) initiated legal action against him for forming a “shadow government” opposing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The DSS filed a suit against Utomi at the Federal High Court in Abuja, following his announcement of an alternative government on May 5. Reacting in a passionate post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Utomi revealed that supporters are mobilizing 500 lawyers to defend him in court.
He likened his stance to that of a “lamb led to slaughter,” declaring that he is unafraid of persecution—or even death—in his fight for democracy.
“I am heartened by messages of solidarity from across Nigeria on this shadowy business of chasing shadows of shadow cabinets,” Utomi wrote. “It reminds me of the Nigeria I used to know.”
He criticized the government’s actions as an attack on democratic freedoms, stating, “This is how democracy dies in Nigeria—when citizens cannot organize themselves to question their leaders.”
Recalling his activism under the late military dictator Sani Abacha, Utomi vowed to continue his resistance. “Under Abacha, we gathered Nigerians at St. Leo’s Church in Ikeja to discuss Nigeria’s future. Now, for merely advocating democracy, hell comes.”
In a dramatic declaration, he said he would proceed to the residence of the late MKO Abiola on June 12 (Democracy Day), prepared for arrest—or worse. “My hands are ready for handcuffs. If they prefer the Aquino treatment—a bullet at the airport—I submit willingly. What is certain is that Tinubu will not escape the same fate in the end.”
Invoking the spirits of Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and St. Thomas More, Utomi affirmed his commitment to justice. Quoting astronomer Carl Sagan, he reflected on humanity’s fragility before boldly proclaiming, “Freedom now—if we die, we die.”
The post has sparked reactions, with many Nigerians applauding his courage while others question the legality of his “shadow government.” The DSS has yet to publicly comment beyond the court filing.
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