The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a defamation suit worth N5.5 billion against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) over allegations of false claims regarding an invasion of SERAP’s Abuja office.
The lawsuit, submitted to the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory on October 17, names DSS officials Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele as claimants.
The DSS asserts that SERAP’s accusations have damaged the reputations of both the agency and the individuals involved.
According to the DSS, John and Ogundele visited SERAP’s office on September 9 as part of a routine engagement with non-governmental organizations.
During this visit, they met a staff member named Ruth, who informed them that SERAP’s management was out of the country and advised them to send a formal invitation for a meeting.
Shortly after their visit, SERAP posted on social media, claiming that DSS officers unlawfully occupied their office.
This was followed by a statement on SERAP’s website, which alleged that DSS personnel, described in detail, interrogated their staff.
The DSS contends that these claims have led to ridicule and criticism from international organizations, such as Amnesty International, and prominent Nigerian figures.
The agency argues that the statements have not only harmed its reputation but also led to ongoing internal investigations and disciplinary actions against the claimants.
In the suit, the DSS is seeking several remedies, including:
- An apology published on SERAP’s website, social media, and in two national newspapers (Punch and Vanguard), as well as two national television stations (Arise Television and Channels Television).
- Payment of N5 billion in damages for the defamatory statements.
- Interest on the claimed damages at a rate of 10% per annum until the amount is fully paid.
- An additional N50 million to cover legal costs.
The case is now assigned to Justice Yusuf Halilu of the High Court of the FCT and has yet to be scheduled for a hearing.
