DSS Launches ₦5.5 Billion Defamation Case Against SERAP Over Invasion Allegations

DSS Launches ₦5.5 Billion Defamation Case Against SERAP Over Invasion AllegationsThe Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a ₦5.5 billion defamation lawsuit against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) over allegations that DSS officials unlawfully invaded SERAP’s Abuja office. The suit, initiated on October 17 at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, is on behalf of DSS officials Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, who claim that SERAP’s statements have severely damaged their reputations.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The case, marked CV/4547/2024, names SERAP and its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, as defendants. According to the claimants, John and Ogundele visited SERAP’s office on September 9 to invite its leadership to a meeting. They were greeted by staff member Ruth, who asked for a formal invitation as management was out of the country. The claimants described their interaction as friendly and recorded.

Later that day, SERAP posted on its X (formerly Twitter) account, alleging that DSS officers had unlawfully occupied its office. The DSS further claimed that SERAP published false statements on its website, describing the officials involved in derogatory terms and alleging that they interrogated staff.

The DSS argues these false claims sparked public outrage and criticism from organizations such as Amnesty International and figures like Femi Falana (SAN). They contend that the allegations have led to reputational harm, internal investigations, suspensions, and accusations of unprofessionalism against the officials.

The DSS is seeking several reliefs from the court, including:

1.An order for SERAP to issue a public apology via its website, social media, two national newspapers (Punch and Vanguard), and two national TV stations (Arise Television and Channels Television) for the allegations made.

2.₦5 billion in damages for the defamatory statements.

3.Interest on the damages at a rate of 10 percent per annum from the judgment date until payment is made.

4.₦50 million in legal costs.

The case has been assigned to Justice Yusuf Halilu of the FCT High Court, but a hearing date has not yet been scheduled.

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