SERAP's N101m Defamation Case Reassigned by Court of Appeal

The Court of Appeal has mandated the reassignment of a case involving the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) concerning a N101 million defamation judgment delivered in May by a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in favor of two operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS). This decision was made on Tuesday after a special panel, constituted by the President of the Court of Appeal, expressed dissatisfaction with the presentation of a related application by SERAP’s deputy director.

This marked the second procedural setback for SERAP within a few days, as the panel had previously adjourned proceedings due to SERAP's failure to file the required application. During the proceedings, SERAP’s lead counsel, Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, informed the court of an application seeking permission for certain individuals and organizations to participate as amici curiae.

Professor Olanrewaju Fagbohun, SAN, representing the University of Columbia, addressed the panel regarding this application. However, Justice Danlami Senchi questioned the necessity of their participation without a court invitation and advised withdrawal, which Fagbohun complied with.

The panel then reserved judgment on SERAP's appeal.