DSS Denies Suing SERAP, Operatives Acted Personally

The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied filing a defamation lawsuit against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), clarifying that two of its operatives, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, acted personally in seeking legal redress. The suit was filed in the Federal Capital Territory High Court, demanding 100 million Naira in damages and a public apology from SERAP, along with 1 million Naira in litigation costs and 10 percent annual post-judgment interest until the sum is fully paid.

This legal action followed a statement from SERAP in September 2024, alleging that DSS operatives unlawfully entered its Abuja office. In response to the judgment, SERAP described the ruling as an unacceptable setback for civic freedom.

The DSS, through its Deputy Director of Public Relations, Favor Dozi, stated that the operatives obtained approval from the agency's Director General to approach the court, emphasizing that the DSS is committed to protecting its officers while carrying out their lawful duties.