The Department of State Services, DSS, has filed a N5.5 billion defamation lawsuit against the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, accusing the organization of making false claims that harmed its reputation.
The suit stems from SERAP’s allegations that the DSS invaded its Abuja office. DSS officials, Sarah John and Gabriel Ogunleye, were also named as claimants, claiming that these accusations damaged their reputations. DSS said that the alleged incident took place during what was intended as a routine, friendly visit by the two officials to SERAP’s office on September 9, 2024, aimed at inviting SERAP’s leadership to a familiarization meeting.
The DSS asserts that SERAP falsely posted on its X formerly called Twitter handle, @SERAPNigeria, and its website, claiming DSS officers unlawfully occupied their office. The claimants stated that this false report was picked up by several media outlets and resulted in widespread criticism, including statements from organizations like Amnesty International and prominent individuals like human rights lawyer Femi Falana SAN.
READ ALSO : DSS denies invasion of SERAP offices, describes claim as ‘inaccurate’
The DSS claims that the statements portrayed the agency and its officials as unprofessional, incompetent, and lawless, leading to significant damage to their public image. Furthermore, the two DSS officials were subjected to internal investigations and disciplinary actions due to the false allegations.
The DSS is seeking N5 billion in damages, along with an additional N50 million in legal costs. They are also requesting an apology from SERAP to be published on SERAP’s website, social media, and in national newspapers and television stations. The case is set to be heard by Justice Yusuf Halilu.
In response, the DSS maintains that it followed standard procedures during the visit and that SERAP’s claims were baseless and defamatory. The agency seeks justice for the damage caused by the misleading reports.
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