I’ll Leave Nigeria If They Muzzle Me!” – Pat Utomi Reacts To DSS Move To Ban Rallies

Former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Prof. Pat Utomi, has voiced his frustration after the Department of State Services (DSS) approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an order to bar him from making public statements or holding rallies related to his proposed shadow government initiative in Nigeria.

In a fresh motion filed on Wednesday, the DSS warned of potential threats to national security, public order, and unity should Utomi proceed with his planned activities upon his return to Nigeria on June 6.

The security agency is requesting an interlocutory injunction to prevent Utomi, his associates, and supporters from organizing any form of public mobilization—including rallies, media appearances, and publications—until the main case is heard in court.

According to the DSS legal team, led by Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), intelligence reports suggest that Utomi—currently outside the country—has finalized plans to return and begin public advocacy in support of his shadow government agenda.

Reacting in an interview with The Punch, Utomi expressed dismay at the government’s continuous effort to silence him, hinting that he might leave the country.

“I’m getting tired of this. If they’re determined to silence me, I’ll go live peacefully in Ghana or somewhere else,” Utomi stated.

He added, “I’m set to retire next year and let them do whatever they wish. I’m only trying to secure a better future for the next generation, but politicians treat honest criticism as a threat.”

Utomi emphasized his desire to inspire Nigerian youth toward freedom and national progress, saying, “It’s up to this generation to realize that some people are standing in the way of the country’s development.”

He also confirmed that Mike Ozekhome (SAN) and other lawyers have filed a defence against the DSS’s initial suit.

Regarding the June 12 rallies, Utomi expressed surprise at the government’s alarm, clarifying that the major events are not until December.