Here’s a quick rundown of what’s happening:
- The Controversy: Prof. Utomi’s “shadow government” idea is facing legal challenges.
- DSS’s Stance: They’re being praised for addressing the issue through the courts.
- Legal Perspective: Experts argue such a structure might clash with the constitution.
- Omokri’s Take: A former presidential aide calls the idea ‘treason.’
Top Lawyer Applauds DSS Action on ‘Shadow Government’
A prominent Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Adeboro Adamson, is giving kudos to the Department of State Security (DSS) for how they’re handling the whole “shadow government” situation proposed by former presidential candidate, Prof. Pat Utomi. According to Adamson, the DSS is acting smartly and within its legal boundaries.
What’s This ‘Shadow Government’ All About?
So, Prof. Utomi, a big name in political economy, recently floated the idea of a “Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government.” The goal? To keep a close eye on the government, point out where things are going wrong, and suggest better ways forward in crucial sectors. Think of it as a watchdog, but with a twist.
Is It Legal? The DSS Steps In
But here’s where it gets interesting. The DSS isn’t so sure this “shadow government” idea is above board. Adamson, speaking on Arise TV, is happy with the DSS for taking the legal route and challenging the idea in court. She points out that the DSS is responsible for sniffing out and stopping things like subversion, terrorism, and espionage. The DSS has recently warned against actions that could disrupt public peace. So, a “shadow government” might raise some red flags.
Constitutional Concerns
“We’re running a presidential system here,” Adamson said. “Does our Constitution even allow for this kind of shadow government?” The DSS seems to think it could be a sneaky way to undermine the government.
Civil Suit vs. Criminal Charges: Why the DSS Chose This Route
Why a civil suit instead of criminal charges? Adamson believes the DSS is playing it smart by letting the courts decide if Prof. Utomi’s actions fit within the Constitution. It’s a more civilized approach, she argues.
Omokri Weighs In: ‘It’s Treason!’
Reno Omokri, who used to advise former President Goodluck Jonathan, is even more blunt. He’s surprised that Utomi, who once advised President Shehu Shagari, doesn’t realize that presidential democracies don’t have room for shadow governments.
Why a Shadow Government Might Not Fly
“Forming a shadow government in a presidential system is basically treason,” Omokri said. “You can’t do that in the United States.” He quotes the Constitution, saying that no one can take control of the government except as allowed by the Constitution itself. According to the council on foreign relations a shadow government is commonly seen in parliamentary systems.
Presidential Systems Don’t Have the Space
Omokri argues that a presidential system is a republican democracy where the president is both the head of state and the head of government. There’s just no room for a shadow government in that setup.
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