The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has rejected a judgment of the Federal Capital Territory High Court ordering it to pay N100 million in damages to two officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged defamation.
Justice Yusuf Halilu, who delivered the ruling in Abuja, also directed SERAP to issue public apologies, pay N1 million in litigation costs, and a 10 per cent annual post-judgment interest on the damages until fully settled.
In a statement reacting to the decision, SERAP described the judgment as “seriously flawed” and “totally unacceptable,” arguing that it represents “a travesty and a serious blow to civic space in Nigeria.”
The organisation further alleged that the ruling reflects a pattern under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu of using defamation laws to stifle criticism and accountability.
SERAP said it had instructed its lawyers, Tayo Oyetibo and Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, to immediately file an appeal against the judgment.
Describing the suit as a “strategic lawsuit against public participation (SLAPP),” the organisation argued that the case was intended to intimidate civil society actors and deter human rights advocacy.
The dispute stems from a September 9, 2024 publication by SERAP alleging that DSS officials unlawfully entered its Abuja office following its call on the federal government to investigate corruption allegations involving the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and reverse fuel price increases.
In its defence before the court, SERAP denied the claims, maintaining that its statements were directed at the DSS as an institution rather than the individual claimants, identified in the suit as Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele.
The organisation also alleged inconsistencies in the DSS account of the visit, including claims that one of the officials signed the visitor’s register under a different name and that the agency provided conflicting explanations for its presence at the office.
SERAP further contended that the visit involved intimidation of its staff, alleging that officials demanded documents, questioned personnel, and maintained a presence outside the premises in unmarked vehicles, causing fear among employees.
Despite the ruling, SERAP reiterated its commitment to pursuing all legal avenues to overturn the decision, insisting that the judgment undermines constitutional guarantees, international human rights obligations, and the protection of freedom of expression in Nigeria.
