The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has rejected the judgment of a Federal Capital Territory high court awarding N100 million in damages to officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) over a defamation suit.
Delivering judgment in a suit marked FCT/HC/CV/4547/24 on Tuesday, Yusuf Halilu, presiding judge, also ordered the organisation to issue public apologies, pay N1 million in litigation costs, and a 10 percent annual post-judgment interest on the damages until fully paid.
The suit was filed by two DSS officials, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, following statements issued by SERAP in September 2024 alleging that operatives of the agency unlawfully entered its Abuja office.
Reacting to the decision, SERAP described the judgment as unacceptable and a setback for civic freedoms.
“This judgment is totally unacceptable to us. It is a travesty and a serious blow to civic space in Nigeria. It reflects a troubling pattern under the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of using defamation laws to punish legitimate criticism and suppress accountability,” the organisation said.
SERAP said has instructed its lawyers to challenge the ruling at the appellate court.
“This case represents a textbook example of judicial harassment and a strategic lawsuit against public participation (SLAPP), designed to intimidate civil society and deter legitimate human rights advocacy,” SERAP added.
The organisation warned that the judgment could have wider implications for free expression and public accountability.
“This judgment sends a dangerous message and creates a chilling effect on freedom of expression, civic participation, and anti-corruption work,” SERAP said.
The group maintained that its actions were in the public interest and consistent with legal standards.
“Our work — particularly in promoting transparency, challenging corruption, and addressing illicit financial flows — is carried out in the public interest and in accordance with the law,” it said.
The case arose after SERAP asked the federal government to investigate allegations involving the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and reverse fuel price increases, after which DSS operatives visited its Abuja office.
