Renowned economist and political activist, Professor Pat Utomi, has issued a bold response to the Department of State Services (DSS) following legal action against him over the formation of a shadow government.

Earlier this month, Utomi launched the Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government, a group comprising members from various opposition parties. According to him, the initiative aims to serve as a watchdog to the Bola Tinubu-led administration tracking governance, spotlighting policy lapses, and proposing alternatives in key sectors such as the economy, education, healthcare, law enforcement, infrastructure, and constitutional reforms.

In reaction, the DSS dragged the former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to court, accusing him of attempting to unlawfully usurp executive powers and destabilize the country.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Utomi dismissed the allegations, reiterating his commitment to democratic principles. He expressed appreciation for the widespread support he has received from Nigerians and revealed that a legal defense team of 500 lawyers is being mobilized on his behalf.

“I am heartened by messages of solidarity from across Nigeria on this shadowy business of chasing shadows of shadow cabinets,” he wrote. “It’s energizing that some want to put together 500 lawyers to defend me against the DSS.”

Utomi condemned what he described as a misplaced national value system that prioritizes power and wealth over peace, progress, and the well-being of future generations.

“To worship money and power at the expense of the future our children will inherit, with no regard for peace and progress, is condemnable by all with a decent conscience,” he stated.

He further criticized the selective enforcement of the Nigerian Constitution, citing cases of lawmakers defecting from the political parties that brought them to office without repercussions.

“If the DSS enjoys going to court, it should prosecute such violations of the constitution,” he added.

Reflecting on his past under military dictatorship, Utomi recalled his role during the Sani Abacha regime particularly a pro-democracy conference he chaired in Ikeja, Lagos, organized by the Catholic Secretariat and then-Father Matthew Kukah.

It was put as a question: Is this how democracy dies in Nigeria? The answer is yes. This is how democracy died when citizens are not allowed to organize and question their leaders,” he said.

Utomi announced plans to return to Nigeria on June 12, a symbolic date commemorating the country’s struggle for democracy, with a visit to the late MKO Abiola’s home. He said he is ready to be arrested or even killed if necessary.

My hands are primed for handcuffs. And if the Aquino treatment from Marcos a bullet at the airport is preferred, I submit willingly, like a lamb led to slaughter. Death is no big deal. Four of my friends are in the morgue.”

He also referenced his past dealings with President Tinubu during the Abacha era.

Tinubu may have been in London when I faced assassins under Abacha and was sending my reports to Chief Enahoro and NADECO abroad but we all ultimately go the way of all men.”

Drawing inspiration from global icons such as Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Saint Thomas More, Utomi vowed to continue the fight for justice, accountability, and democratic integrity.

To the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and the holy watch of St. Thomas More, I raise the meaning of being for what is left of my time on this stage.”

He closed with a quote from astrophysicist Carl Sagan, invoking a powerful call to action: I remember the showman of science, Carl Sagan, as the NASA orbiter turned its camera to Earth a speck of dust, home to tyrants and also to all those we have loved. I am emboldened to chant: Freedom now. If we die, we die.”