SERAP Appeals N100M Defamation Ruling Against DSS

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed an appeal against a judgment from the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, which awarded N100 million to two officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) in a defamation lawsuit. The case, instituted by DSS officials Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundel, alleged defamation by SERAP.

The court, presided over by Justice Yusuf Halilu, ordered SERAP to issue a public apology and pay N1 million in litigation costs, along with 10 percent annual post-judgment interest until fully paid. SERAP's Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, described the judgment as unacceptable and a serious blow to civic space in Nigeria, arguing that it reflects a troubling pattern under President Bola Tinubu's administration to suppress legitimate criticism.

SERAP's legal team, including Tayo Oyetibo and Ebun Olu Adegboruwa, has been instructed to appeal the ruling. Amnesty International Nigeria also expressed concern over the judgment, warning of its chilling effect on civil society and freedom of expression.