DSS ₦5 Billion Defamation Suit Against SERAP: Court Begins Hearing
A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Friday began substantive hearings in a defamation lawsuit filed by two operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).
PRNigeria reports that the case stems from an incident in September 2024, when SERAP accused DSS operatives of invading its Abuja office. The organization did not issue an apology following the allegation, prompting DSS officers Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele to file a defamation suit in October 2024. The plaintiffs are seeking ₦5 billion in damages for reputational harm caused by SERAP’s claims.
In addition to the monetary compensation, the officers are demanding a public apology to be published on SERAP’s website, in national newspapers, and on television stations. They are also seeking ₦50 million to cover legal costs and an annual interest of 10 percent on the ₦5 billion until the full amount is paid.
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At the resumed hearing, the court advised SERAP’s legal team to review all six documents submitted by the plaintiffs. The judge emphasized that any objections raised by the defense would be addressed in the final written address. The hearing commenced with the cross-examination of the first claimant, Sarah John, referred to as Plaintiff Witness 1 (PW1), by the counsels representing the defendants.
SERAP was represented in court by Divine Oguru, while Oluwatosin Adesoye stood in for the organization’s deputy director, who was absent. Adesoye apologized for his client’s inability to attend the hearing. The plaintiffs were represented by Akinolu Timothy Kehinde, SAN, who expressed readiness to proceed with the case.
During the cross-examination, SERAP’s legal team argued that the claimants’ names were not explicitly mentioned in the organization’s allegations, questioning the basis for the defamation claims. Sarah John, however, maintained that SERAP’s accusations had caused significant damage to her reputation, that of her colleague, and the DSS as a whole.
After a one-hour session, the judge adjourned the case to May 8, 2025, for further hearing. The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting the ongoing tensions between civil society organizations and security agencies in Nigeria.
By PRNigeria
