CSOs Demand Release of DSS-SERAP Judgment in Nigeria

On May 11, 2026, a coalition of 52 civil society organizations, including Amnesty International Nigeria, ActionAid Nigeria, and SERAP, issued a joint press statement expressing serious concerns regarding the delay in the release of the certified true copy of a defamation judgment involving the DSS. The organizations argue that the lack of access to the judgment undermines judicial transparency and the public's ability to evaluate legal positions and pursue appeals.

They highlighted that the right to a fair hearing, as guaranteed under Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution, extends beyond courtroom proceedings to include transparency in judicial decisions. The coalition also referenced international legal standards, including Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, which protect the right to receive information and express opinions.

They warned that the delay could erode public confidence in the judiciary and called for the immediate release of the judgment to uphold constitutional and human rights guarantees.