Tension Rises As Court Stalls DSS’ Explosive ₦5 Billion Defamation Battle Against SERAP

The suit, referenced as FCT/HC/CV/4547/24, was filed by two DSS officials, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele.

At the resumed hearing, the second defendant and SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, began his defence after the court granted a procedural application allowing the amendment of their filings.

Testifying as PW2, Oluwadare adopted his sworn statement and provided clarifications on SERAP’s mission and the circumstances surrounding the alleged DSS presence at the organisation’s Abuja office.

Reaffirming the organisation’s mission, he said: “SERAP is a registered non-governmental organisation committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and social justice in Nigeria.”

He dismissed claims portraying SERAP as anti-government, stressing that the organisation’s role is to protect and promote human and socio-economic rights in the public interest.

Oluwadare also told the court that intimidation and harassment of civic groups “pose serious threats” to SERAP’s work, especially its efforts to ensure accountability in public institutions.

He further confirmed that SERAP receives support from local and international donors.

During cross-examination, the deputy director stood by his earlier assertion that DSS operatives were seen at SERAP’s office on the day of the incident—an event he said triggered the organisation’s public alerts.

He explained that several staff members, including a receptionist, a security guard, and another lawyer, reported sighting the operatives.

When questioned on whether any staff were assaulted or if property was damaged, he admitted there were no physical attacks or broken doors but maintained that “the manner of entry and the presence of unmarked vehicles raised concerns and informed SERAP’s public statements.”

He also noted that SERAP has CCTV footage of the incident and said the organisation’s tweets accurately reflected the seriousness of what staff witnessed.

After cross-examination, counsel for the claimants, Oluwagmileke Kehinde, informed the court that both parties had closed their cases and requested a date for adopting their final written addresses.

Justice Halilu adjourned the matter to February 19 for filing and adoption of the final addresses.

SERAP and its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, are listed as defendants in the suit.